Knop or Remora

[jandree22]

Okay, so I was planning to set up my 75gal. tank into a reef but because I'm in college and short on cash, I'm now more-so leaning towards a FOWLR setup. I only have a SeaClone skimmer now, and I know that's junk and I wanna upgrade. I'm not gonna have a sump so obviously it has to be a HOB. Right now my two main choices are a Knop or a Remora Pro.

I obviously know that the Remora Pro is a better quality skimmer than the Knop, but the Knop is also $100 cheaper. I hate to skimp, but yet if it's only gonna be LR and fish, what would you guys pick? Space is also a concern as my tank's in kinda a In-Wall shelf system, so I'm guessing the Remora Pro's a lot skinnier too, huh?

I dunno, comments or suggestions? thanks...

 

[ChrisRD]

This is a case of basically getting what you pay for...

The Knop is not a very well made skimmer (cheap, thin extruded acrylic) but they do work OK on smaller tanks. They have an annoying tendency to overflow periodically. Personally, I wouldn't own another one.

If you like that style of skimmer, I'd recommend a Precision Marine HOT-1 over the Knop. Similar design, but they are a much higher quality product, perform better and seem to be much less prone to overflowing.

The Remora Pro would be an excellent choice - IMO they require the least care/maintenance of the three. Another thing I like about the Remora/Remora Pro is that you can put your heater in the outflow chamber of these skimmers (thereby getting it out of the tank).

HTH

 

[jandree22]

hmm, that's cool about the heaters.... you think maybe two visitherms could fit in there?

 

[ChrisRD]

I'm sure they'll fit, but I'm not sure at what point obstructions in the outflow chamber will start to effect the function of the skimmer (never tried two heaters).

I don't own any hang-on skimmers anymore or I'd try it out and let you know. Maybe someone else has tried this and can offer some input...