Quality Skimmer for a 50 Breeder QT

[paulthomas]

I've got an AquaC Remora with a new MJ 1200 and it worked pretty well. But I think I'm going to add a sump for more volume and in-sump protein skimmer. I'm thinking of getting this:

http://www.marinedepot.com/ps_ViewItem~category~Precision_Marine_Redline_Protein_Skimmers_Saltwater_Aquarium_Supplies_Protein_Skimmers_In_Sump_Skimmers_Venturi_Needle_Wheel~vendor~Precision_Marine~SearchStr~~action~view~idProduct~PM1411~idCategory~FIPSISNW.html

I think Barry (Miller) has one.

Does anyone have another suggestion based on personal experience?

Thanks,
Paul

 

[Joel A]

from what i have read they are solid... although it's like so many other needle wheel skimmers on the market.

You might be able to find a comparable octopus cheaper..

 

[paulthomas]

from what i have read they are solid... although it's like so many other needle wheel skimmers on the market.

You might be able to find a comparable octopus cheaper..

Thanks Joel. I was looking at the Vertex skimmers too. If the construction is anything like that of their Zeo filter, then it's a good deal. The Zeo filter is well made, especially for the money. The only issue I've read about with their skimmers in that the included needle wheel pump is a piece of garbage. But it's got good looking acrylic and a bubble plate.

 

[Joel A]

Thanks Joel. I was looking at the Vertex skimmers too. If the construction is anything like that of their Zeo filter, then it's a good deal. The Zeo filter is well made, especially for the money. The only issue I've read about with their skimmers in that the included needle wheel pump is a piece of garbage. But it's got good looking acrylic and a bubble plate.

true, those zeo reactors are pretty solid.

You could always replace the needle wheel with one that would properly do the job.. but you're looking at probably another 100+ to do that.

 

[paulthomas]

You could always replace the needle wheel with one that would properly do the job.. but you're looking at probably another 100+ to do that.

Yeah, that's another option. But I'd prefer to get a skimmer with a decent pump. But they're all over-sized or too much money for what I need.

 

[Miller]

We have the RL200, its been on our system for a while. It seems to do a pretty good job, I can tell (smell) when I need to clean out the cup.

The wattage on the pump is not to bad, I believe ours is 65 watts. Overall I am happy with the skimmer. FrankenReef is approximately 90 gallons, clump of cheato, 80-90lbs of live rock with 17:.

I am thinking about trying a recirc mod to improve the performance, not because I am unhappy with the skimmer just because I always like to be doing something to or for our reef tank.

As with every PM product I've seen construction and build quality is top notch. It's fairly easy to dial in but can be touchy. I know where you can save on shipping and pick one up this week....there is atleast a RL200 on the shelf and maybe even one of the smaller versions in N. Providence.

HTH

 

[paulthomas]

N. Providence is a bit of a hike. But I appreciate the thought.

I don't think I need quite that large a skimmer. Something in the 100 gallon range (RL 100 or 125) should suffice.