Oct 11, 2016
David Hartman
wrote
Hello,
I just purchased an SRO-1000INT and set it up in my sump. the water level is approximately 7".
When I turn on the skimmer, water and white foam immediately flood the up through the unit and pour out the collection cup. I tried to turn the output flow completely off and then start adjusting from there. However, the output cannot be turned off. Even with the valve turned in the off position, water flows through.
Bigger question is this... Other than the water flow, what kind of adjustment can I make? My other skimmer worked great until the motor gave out. Not sure why this one would be giving such a problem. Doesn't seem like this is chalked up to salinity or any of that.
Right now, this skimmer is worse than useless to me. Could you please explain proper procedure for adjustment because I am out of ideas.
Thanks,
David
I just purchased an SRO-1000INT and set it up in my sump. the water level is approximately 7".
When I turn on the skimmer, water and white foam immediately flood the up through the unit and pour out the collection cup. I tried to turn the output flow completely off and then start adjusting from there. However, the output cannot be turned off. Even with the valve turned in the off position, water flows through.
Bigger question is this... Other than the water flow, what kind of adjustment can I make? My other skimmer worked great until the motor gave out. Not sure why this one would be giving such a problem. Doesn't seem like this is chalked up to salinity or any of that.
Right now, this skimmer is worse than useless to me. Could you please explain proper procedure for adjustment because I am out of ideas.
Thanks,
David
Reply
1 Answer
Oct 11, 2016
Carlos
agent
wrote
There are several common reasons a protein skimmer will overflow but the most common is a chemical within the water itself.
Chemical Reaction - Some chemicals react with the air that the skimmer produces and causes the skimmer to over produce foamate. Chemicals known to cause skimmers to overflow are, red slime remover, medications, reef/frag putties (epoxy Putty) frag glues, water conditioners, dechlorinators, stress coat, NEW filter socks, newly mixed salt, bacteria (seeding) additives as well as other dosing medias. In order to remove these chemicals from the water column we suggest that you do several 20% water changes over the period of a month and add a good amount of fresh activated carbon to the system and change out every week till the skimmer has returned to normal operation.
Water level in sump - It is important that you place your skimmer in the proper water level. It is also important that the output of the skimmer is not submerged under water unless it is properly vented.
Inner water level - If your inner water level is set too high the slightest change in your water chemistry can cause your skimmer to over flow. We suggest that your inner water level to be set at no higher than the collar where the cup meets the body.
Blockage - The air intake otherwise known as the venturi, is like small vacuum pulling air from the surrounding environment. Often collecting dust and debris from the air which can block the proper amount of air to enter the pump increasing the water being pulled by the pump. It is also common for saltcreap to build up in the venturi and will need to be removed manually by scraping it away or dissolving in a solution of vinegar and water. Make sure you inspect the air venture, silencer and air hose for any debris or salt creep deposits. Also be sure the air hose is not bent or too long preventing proper air flow into the pump.
Chemical Reaction - Some chemicals react with the air that the skimmer produces and causes the skimmer to over produce foamate. Chemicals known to cause skimmers to overflow are, red slime remover, medications, reef/frag putties (epoxy Putty) frag glues, water conditioners, dechlorinators, stress coat, NEW filter socks, newly mixed salt, bacteria (seeding) additives as well as other dosing medias. In order to remove these chemicals from the water column we suggest that you do several 20% water changes over the period of a month and add a good amount of fresh activated carbon to the system and change out every week till the skimmer has returned to normal operation.
Water level in sump - It is important that you place your skimmer in the proper water level. It is also important that the output of the skimmer is not submerged under water unless it is properly vented.
Inner water level - If your inner water level is set too high the slightest change in your water chemistry can cause your skimmer to over flow. We suggest that your inner water level to be set at no higher than the collar where the cup meets the body.
Blockage - The air intake otherwise known as the venturi, is like small vacuum pulling air from the surrounding environment. Often collecting dust and debris from the air which can block the proper amount of air to enter the pump increasing the water being pulled by the pump. It is also common for saltcreap to build up in the venturi and will need to be removed manually by scraping it away or dissolving in a solution of vinegar and water. Make sure you inspect the air venture, silencer and air hose for any debris or salt creep deposits. Also be sure the air hose is not bent or too long preventing proper air flow into the pump.