Inline Reef tank overflow skimmer

[Lovet]

Hello everyone I am new to this form and many others. I have a question about protein skimmers.

I have a 75 gal reef tank with a Tidepool 4 stage wet/dry filter. I have been running a freshwater setup in it for the last 2-1/2 years with little to no problems. I bought this tank to learn more about how to take care of tanks and to get a hobby. I believe that I am ready to go to a reef tank setup now. I have drained and clean out my tank and sold my gravel rocks.
I want to set this tank up on a good start on the 1^st time. I know this is not possible, but I want to be close to it as possible. I have read and talked to people about protein skimmers and I have all ways seen the skimmers in the tank, in the sump or pump driven on the side of the tank.

I would like to know what is the best design out there as of Right now that I can build and have the best results with. I do not wish to buy one because of the prices that I run across on the sizes that I would like. The other pump I have it in my Tidepool sump for the return. Is it possible for me to place a pump driven protein filter inline before it goes back to my tank or do I need another pump (which I have a backup pump) to drive my protein skimmer.

[Geoff]

Welcome to TRT!!



it is very difficult to have a skimmer in line. they are open systems so any pressure differences causes the skimmer to behave differently. in order to have a skimmer in line the collection cup will need to be higher than the water level in the tank. if not then the back pressure from the tank will cause the skimmer to overflow. skimmers are best put in the sump.

there are several DIY ones out there including the ones that i have on my site. they are fairly easy to build and work quite well.

G~

[nobody]

i honestly would drop one in the sump or do a hang on if you do not have room........i agree with geoff the inlines ones are not the best route................check out the aqua c remora or remora pro for hang on units and the aqua evo for the insump..........good skimmers they use injection not air or ventri

[VWD]

Welcome to TRT!!!!

[skeety]

Agreed with everyone. Putting the skimmer in the sump will yield you the best results.

Also, Geoff's DIY skimmer is probably one of the best you'll find. Here's a link:

http://themantledmonster.thereeftank.com/sdiy.html

LOTS of people on here have made this skimmer, and had very good results.

Good luck, and WELCOME to TRT!! Coming here was the number 1 BEST thing you could do for your tank!! Everyone here is really helpful, and has a sincere desire to see you have a nice tank!

Also, one last question: This FW tank you're using...did you EVER treat that tank for Ick? most FW ick medications are copper based. Copper is extremely toxic (in any more than trace amounts) to most reef inverts.

Copper also has a knack for being absorbed into the silicone seal.

Basically, if this tank every had copper based meds in it, you run the risk of having major problems down the road in using it as a reef tank.

(just FYI)

[Hardhead Cat]

Welcome to TRT - there are a ton of great people here to help you along the way!

HHC