Best way to setup return pump to handle skimmer?

[MikeyNYC]

I've seen a bunch of people plumb the return pump to handle both return and skimmer duties, and was looking for some advice. I have a eheim 1260, and a AquaC Urchin Pro (In-Sump Remora) on a 90+ gallon bow.

I've been using a mag 9 for the return and rio 1400 on the skimmer, just picked up the eheim 1260. I'm in the process of setting up new plumbing and wanted to explore my options if any exist. Only about of 4ft of head pressure at the moment.

In the end, I want to make sure the performance isn't effected. The skimmer is probably underrated for the tank as it is, but if having both together doesn't change things too much, then hey why not. Thanks for any input. Mike

 

[loismustdie]

Performance will always be effected when you run a return and skimmer off of the same pump. Since you feel your skimmer is already underrated (which I agree with you) then I definitely wouldn't bother. Your skimmer will be less consistent and you will have reduced effectiveness. I once tee'd in a skimmer off of my return which was similar to an aqua C and dialing it in was very difficult and once tee'd in, the skimmer never really skimmed well.
Skimmers should be ran on dedicated pumps. With that being said, it is possible and it can work, but I don't think you'll get very good results with the tank size, skimmer and pump GPH combo you are dealing with.