Jan 11, 2018
Greg
wrote
The protein skimmer is pumping out bubbles so much overflows into the sump. Sits in a sump 7 inches deep. Brand new skimmer only been in operation for a few days since out of box. Temp and salinity are perfect. Tank size 75 gal. can't get it to stop overflowing it pushes the lid for collection cup over every time. Help
Reply
8 Answers
Jan 12, 2018
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.
Jan 22, 2018
Katie Wing
wrote
But what if it’s brand new. No meds, chemicals nothing but salt, water, sand & rocks. I’ve lifted it 3” & have had the valve all the way from open to closed turning just a tad to try to find the right spot but still does it. So I guess question is how often on a regular basis do you have to dump the cup???
Jan 23, 2018
Carlos
agent
wrote
all depends on your system and how much waste there is. What kind of water are you using to make your salt? Did you add any type of bacterial startup solution? They are notorious for doing that especially if the solution is meant for fresh water.
Jan 23, 2018
Katie Wing
wrote
We did the reverse osmosis on all water & didn’t add any startup chemicals.
Jan 23, 2018
Carlos
agent
wrote
Can you send us a video of the skimmer running please? We would like to see how the skimmer looks and how it is installed.
Jan 23, 2018
Katie Wing
wrote
Sure I’m not sure how to get it to you. I have one made. I apologize in advance I have Tourette’s & my speech is just awful from it & prolly a little shaken plusnhave literally been sitting on the floor in front of the slimmer trying to tune it I think it’s called. I have had it flat in bottom, have raised it 1 1/2”, then 3” now 3 1/2” & asni have been typing this it has overflowed again. Please help
Jan 23, 2018
Katie Wing
wrote
Sorry I have the video ready just don’t know where to upload it to. Sorry for so many errors in the last messages I was trying to type & catch the bubbles from going every where at the same time. Thanks in advance
Jan 24, 2018
Carlos
agent
wrote
You can always email the video to support@coralvue.com.