HELP! Classic 110int is making too many bubbles

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.

Yes, Prime will cause the skimmer to go absolutely crazy. It is the same effect as adding soap to the water. You will need to do water changes and run regular activated carbon. You can get the carbon from your fish store or online. The name of the game is dilution. You have to dilute the chemical in the water until there is so little of it that the skimmer will not be affected. How long will it take depends on how much prime you added to the tank.

Here is a short article on how to properly dial the skimmer... http://coralvue.com/support/317511-How-do-you-dial-in-a-protein-skimmer

While the article uses an external skimmer, the concept is the same. All our skimmers work the same way inside.

Also, make sure that your skimmer is installed in 7" of water. If it is too deep, you will need to raise the skimmer. If it is too shallow, you may have to add more water to your sump. The optimal water level for the skimmer is 7".