Protein skimmers

[Scubadoo]

Looking for some educated opinions on protein skimmers. I've been in the reef hobby for about 10yrs now and am setting up a new 90g reef system. I want to do it right from the ground up. As protein skimmers go, there are so many out there. I am looking at the Reef Octopus extreme 160, I have read some really good reviews on them and the appear to be a very efficient skimmer and the most bang for the buck considering some I looked at were up over the $650.00 mark. Suggestions welcome. Thanks

 

[cbrsorlo]

I personally would suggest a Bubble King Mini and I just got a great deal from Rafal. Much easier to tune than a Bubble Master.

 

[mr_X]

octo extreme or MSX will do the job and be very affordable.

 

[MarineMarty]

I like my LifeReef

 

[NYreefNoob]

vertex in gen 2 180 just ordered mine

 

[marki24]

Deltec MCE 300 or 600 probably the best out there IMO.

 

[Solace Aquatics LLC]

Octo Extreme is a nice skimmer - if you are willing to go up to 650 you can get yourself into a CAT 1 or 2. Or if you want to go nuts, there is always the ATB option.

 

[cowfish]

Skimmers are like opinions... everbody has one!

 

[NYreefNoob]

there's a bm 250 on RC f\s for $365 shipped

 

[Solace Aquatics LLC]

Skimmers are like opinions... everbody has one!

Not always true, unless you think a Seaclone is great skimmer. There is no opinion there, we all know it is a POS.

There is certainly is a difference between good and bad skimmers.


Finding a good skimmer is dependent on many variables, Size (will it fit where you want to), Need (size of bioload and tank), Price (how much are you willing to spend), and Availability.

There are many variables to consider when purchasing a skimmer that fits into all of those criteria and what is best for your system. I recommend doing a bit of research. See what others are running on systems similar to your own, asking questions, and weighing all your options.

Just my opinion, I have sold and installed everything from Hang on the Back Reef Octopus Skimmers all the way to commercial sized ATBs.

 

[House of Laughter]

long but great read on skimmers used here on MR - well worth the time if you have it.

You can get alot of skimmer for a 90g under $650

House

 

[artie1209]

Just remember most if not all skimmers are over rated by their makers. Look for one that is rated higher than the volume of your tank. If you end up going a little bigger then you can still use it and it will serve you well if you over stock.

By the way I am using an ASM G3 on my 120/Gallon reef and I am very happy with it. Very affordable, easy to adjust and maintain.