Non-Producing Aqua C Urchin

Jrmass · 07-21-2007, 06:40 PM

Any ideas how I can get this skimmer to produce? I haven't produced more than HALF a cup of skimmate from this unit even if I go without cleaning the cup for a month or LONGER. Like today I cleaned it (even tore the whole unit apart AGAIN) and there wasn't even 1/3 of a cup of skimmate after having not cleaned the cup in 2-3 weeks. I have a newer maxijet 1200 on it (which is what is called for). But, I was wondering if I went with a larger pump if I'm going to get too much or if this might be the boost I'm needing.

This skimmer is on my 70 gallon with 15 gallon sump 2 blue damsels, 1 maroon clown, 130 LR, 120 LS,

Any suggestions would be appreciated.

Jas

schneijt · 07-21-2007, 10:01 PM

I know that every person I've talked to has said to put a slightly larger pump on their skimmers than recommended. So, maybe try a pump that puts out a bit more than the MaxiJet 1200. I'm sure if you search Reef Central for this, you'll find plenty of people who can comment on this.

-Joe

Jrmass · 07-22-2007, 11:18 AM

Finally got an answer from one of the guys on RC and it sounds like one of the guys is using a Mag 3 to run his as he was experiencing the same issues. So, I'll order one and see where that takes me.

pogodzib · 07-23-2007, 09:28 AM

The Mag 3 is being used more and more on the Remora & Urchin skimmers. I would try a Mag 3 on my Remora skimmer use for the hell of it if it wasn't for me taking the tank down soon. Now there are even people using Mag 5's on the Remora Pro to get more skimmate.

Jrmass · 07-23-2007, 06:08 PM

Anyone happen to have a Mag 3 they aren't using and wouldn't mind selling off? lol

hansmatt · 07-23-2007, 06:55 PM

Jason,
I saw one earlier on RC, $40?

pogodzib · 07-24-2007, 08:36 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by hansmatt

Jason,
I saw one earlier on RC, $40?

You should be able to get a new Mag 3 for around that price.

Jrmass · 07-24-2007, 07:10 PM

I can get a new one shipped to me for about $55-$58 off of ebay. I'll probably just end up going this route seeing if I can beat that price I'm not sure if it's really worth it for a pump this small.

pogodzib · 07-25-2007, 09:32 AM

Marinedepot.com, PremiumAquatics.com, and Pet Solutions all sell Mag 3 pumps for around $44 + shipping. You can sometimes get free shipping or a 5% discount for being a member of certain forums. Much better than buying something off of E-bay and wondering it is will show up, it's actual condition, or having to deal with warranty issues if it were to break right away.

Loverotties · 07-25-2007, 10:11 AM

Did you clean the jet out and have the cup as low as it can go?

Jrmass · 07-25-2007, 11:55 AM

Yes, I ran a pipette cleaner through the jet and the set screw is tightened as low as possible for the cup.

Loverotties · 07-25-2007, 12:14 PM

And you didn't screw the plastic screw into far to block the flow before the jet?

mediabox · 08-14-2007, 11:36 PM

Did you get the Mag3? Did it help? I have a Urchin and all I get at most is 3mm in a week. I have the cup at its lowest and I havent messed around with any screws.

mjsandbe · 08-15-2007, 08:55 AM

I have a Mag 5 on mine and I have to keep the cup set high or I get a cup full of brown water. To keep it going I usually clean out the jet once a month or so.

Jahreefer · 08-15-2007, 11:21 AM

Alot of times when I see that someones skimmer is not working it becuase it is not cleaned often enough, especially the throat to the collection cup. Look at like this...say for instance you try to walk up a dry stream bed, it is easy right, no water no algae to slip on. Now say that stream is running. The rock are all covered in slick algea...makes it harder to go right...same situation with a skimmer...once that nasty slime builds on the neck, and that only takes a day or two, the skimmate and foam have a harder time climbing into the cup. I clean my skimmer cup ever day...yes everyday...this is also just my .02. Have a beautiful day and clean your dang skimmer