Sump smell solutions?

[ricomike]

What do people do to minimize the horrible smell that the protein skimmer creates in the sump. It seeps out of my sump and gradually stinks up the living room. I regularly clean the collection cup but it still gets quite pungent in a very short amount of time. Has anybody tried an open baking soda box like most people do in their refrigerator? Or are there any other tricks people use? Thanks, Mike.

 

[fishmommy]

A sealed collection system with carbon filtration works great. I use the Avast Marine locker but there are other brands and DIY versions. You need the space though.

 

[Moe_K]

Here's a trick:
Sprinkle a tablespoon of baking soda, Super Washing Soda, or kalk in there after you clean the collection cup.

Bacteria are consuming the nutrient rich skimmate and producing the odors. High pH in the cup (from kalk) will make the environment too basic for them to live.

 

[ricomike]

Awesome thanks I may try both.

 

[PSU4ME]

As said before, you can buy a skimmate locker. I just picked up the 4" reef octopus version and it is pretty slick. I like the 15 minute delay after power loss.

 

[delta]

You can also vent it outside. In addition it will also lower CO2 level in the room as well as sending the odor outside. Getting rid of CO2 is not as big a deal in the summer but important in the winter.

 

[higorc]

A sealed collection system with carbon filtration works great. I use the Avast Marine locker but there are other brands and DIY versions. You need the space though.

+1

I have one and it works. Now I only have to deal with the smell once a month when I clean it... Wife is happy, I am happy

Plus it's got a shut off system if your Skimmer ever overflows. LOVE IT! My Skimmer has overflowed on me more than once, not anymore....



Higor