Dec 05, 2013
Salty Fingers
wrote
I recently upgraded my system to a 180gal and am still using my same Reef Octopus skimmer. The trouble is ever since the move the skimmer is not collecting nearly the same amount it did on my older 90gal system. I used all the old rock and added about 100gal of mixed salt water. I have yet to place the fish and corals in till the 180gal has cycled. Does the amount of waste in the water have an effect on how the skimmer performs?
Reply
1 Answer
Dec 05, 2013
Jeremy Rykiel
agent
wrote
The concentration of DOC in aquarium water has a major factor in the skimmer’s performance. It is easier to separate something from water with a higher concentration than water with low DOC. Basically the skimmer can only pull out what is present in the water pulled in by the skimmer pump. The skimmate collection, color and concentration is dependent of what is fed to the tank, the bio-load and the setting of the skimmer. To adjust a skimmer properly users must be patience and regulate it several times over a period of a few days. Also note that new plumbing and equipment will introduce oils within the water which will have an effect on the foam production of the skimmer.