DIY Skimmer Idea....first timer....Need some feedback

[c9miles]

I have been messing around with the idea of making a "nano" skimmer for my 12 gallon tank. I want to model it somewhat after the Sander Piccolo. http://www.aqua-sander.de/produkte/piccolo.en.html
I decided to make my own to fit where I wanted it, instead of just buying the Piccolo.

I just want something really simple that I can hang on the tank. I have been running without a skimmer for about 6 months, but I thought it would be fun to try. I built a prototype (which you can see my idea in the picture), and it seems to be doing what its supposed to, however the only thing ending up in my collection cup is clear water from my tank....so not exactly what its supposed to. I went and got a bigger air pump to run the limewood stone with more bubbles, but if I turn the pump down at all, the foam bubbles never make it to my collection cup. So I'm up for some feedback, and some ideas why I'm only getting water and no brown stuff. Its only been running half the day today. Thanks for the help.

Chad

[wharyat]

Over time you will notice that the skimmer becomes more efficient. They get a coat of bacteria and other stuff that helps the water climb into the cup.

Your tank water is obviously pretty clean if your not noticing a lot of vile skimmate. Most of the time you will be pulling skimmate the color of a light cup of tea, with dryer skimming it will be thick and smell quite bad. Wet skimming is the way to go.

[Loverotties]

You could put brown food coloring in the tank!

[yardboy]

Is there any way to adjust the water level in the skimmer? Usually the moisture content of the skimmate (wet vs. dry) is a function of water level (closer to the neck, wetter; lower, drier)

[c9miles]

Yeah I can adjust the height by moving the hanger up or down the side. Maybe my tank isn't dirty enough to get anything. I'll move it down and give it some time and see what happens. Thanks for the help....and if all else fails, I'll try some food coloring!

Chad