AquaC Remora Pro, op.  10/17/08
I knew that if I could get great advice anywhere, it would be here so here is my dilemma: after getting disgusted time and time again and having a few
overflows with my Prizm Pro skimmer, I decided to listen to the consensus here and purchased an AquaC Remora Pro.
<A good move.>
I have never read anything but good about this skimmer here.
<For good reason.>
To get to the point, the problem is that I have been unable to adjust the cup level so that the water bubbles do not constantly come over as a very,
very wet foam and spill over into the collection cup and then constantly run out into my external overflow (gallon jug for now). If I let it run like
this, it will eventually empty my tank. If I adjust the O-ring at the lower setting (below the drain fitting elbow) than the foam level does not go up
the column and into the cup at all. I got it with the drain fitting option, and was a bit dismayed that it did not come with a plug just in case I did not want to use the barbed elbow that it did come with.
<This will be a regular plug available at any hardware store, most likely a ¼” or 3/8” pipe thread.>
I will be calling AquaC later on today when they open, but any suggestions here will be very greatly appreciated.
<A few things come to mind. First, do you use any additives on a regular basis such as Selcon or one of the many magic coral elixirs? Many of these can make a skimmer go out of control. Other point is, new skimmers can take a bit to start producing a good skimmate. It is common to set the collection cup too low to get something, and then it ends up being a very wet foam. The collection cup will need to be set higher, this is what the skimmate is telling you. Be patient, the foam will reach the top of the neck, again if this is a new skimmer it can take a few days.>
Thanks for your help,
Jeffrey Castaldo
<Welcome, Scott V.>

Skimmer for 47 gallon reef 8/22/08
I have a 47 gallon reef tank that is currently running with a Prizm Skimmer. I don't feel that this skimmer is sufficient, and I am considering purchasing a Prizm Pro skimmer. I would really appreciate your opinion of the Prizm Pro on a tank of 47 gallons with moderate bio-load. It can be purchased for $160, but it is not so much the price I am concerned with, I want good skimming, and I hear from some people anyway, that it can be obtained with the Prizm Pro.
<It can work fine, so can the regular Prizm. The issue with these skimmers is the need to constantly tweak the thing to keep it skimming, they are just a lot of trouble.>
Some people love it, some people hate it. I know that a lot of people speak well about the AquaC Remora, but is the Prizm Pro such a poor performer as what I have read?
<Considering they cost about the same, you need to know the Remora is in a whole different class. You will set the cup height and from there all you do is clean out the nasty that collects in the cup.>
Thank you for your input,
Jeffrey Castaldo
<Welcome, Scott V.>

Aqua C Micro Bubbles 5/17/08
Didn't see an answer for my question in the faqs. If
its in there, I’m sorry!
<No problem, it is greatly appreciated that you looked first!>
I just bought an AquaC Remora with the Maxi jet 1200.
<Good setup.>
I CAN NOT get rid of the micro bubbles. I’m not sure if the skimmate cup is too high and its allowing bubbles past, or what.
I would appreciate any opinions!
Thanks!
<Everything sounds normal. As per Aqua C’s directions, the skimmer will put out some micro bubbles while the skimmer is “breaking in”. This has been my experience too. Give it time, they will disappear. A link to Aqua C’s instructions below. Welcome, Scott V.>
http://proteinskimmer.com/User%27s%20Manuals/Remora.pdf

Re: Aqua C Micro Bubbles 5/17/08
Thank you very much!
<Welcome very much!>
It has already been a week, so hopefully it will end soon!
<It will, with time. I find one week to be a bit conservative. Usually two or even a few days more.>
This site is fantastic. You guys are all such a great help!
<Thank you!>
Thanks again!
<Welcome, happy reefing, Scott V.>

Skimmer Upgrade? 5/10/08 I currently have a 125 gallon reef tank. The water currently flows downstairs into an Aqua C EV150 skimmer and then into a 58 gallon refugium filled with live sand 6 inches deep and it is full of Chaeto algae. The skimmer is in an acrylic box inside of the 58 gallon tank and water flows through this first, and then through the Chaeto. It then flows down into a sump (28 gallon trash can) and it is then pumped it back to the main tank with a mag 18. Circulation is provided by a Sequence Dart pump on a closed loop. <Sounds nice!> The tank has been set up for about a year and I have a problem with some course wire like algae but otherwise it looks great and the corals are growing like crazy. The tank has 6 Green Chromis, a BlueBand Goby, A 12 year old Clown fish, <Wow!> and a 8 year old Yellow Tang. Lighting consists of 3 175 watt 10,000k halides with 2 20 watt Actinics. I change 16 gallons of water weekly, and top off with Kalkwasser. I converted 2 smaller tanks into this larger one last spring and love it but want the extra volume and security of a larger sump. <Larger never hurts with sumps.> I am upgrading the size of the sump to 75 gallons and was wondering if the additional volume would call for a larger skimmer? Since the bioload is the same I would think that it would not require additional skimming. <Your DOC’s will be diluted a bit more, the skimmer sizing has more to do with the volume of water it can process more than anything. A larger tank does not require a larger skimmer to functionally skim what passes through, it requires a larger skimmer to have the ability to process enough water to accommodate the volume in the tank. But, all things considered you do have a fine skimmer for your system.> I figure the total volume of water in the system will be around 180 to 200 gallons. <Nice.> My thoughts are that as long as the bio-load doesn't change then the skimmer should not have to. The Below is a picture of one half of the tank. <Nice tank.> Thanks, Aaron <Welcome, have fun.>

<<nice! -Sara M.>>

Skimmer Upgrade? 5/10/08 Thanks for your advice. <Welcome.> The reef tank is doing great and Wet Web Media made it all happen. <Thank you, I will pass this around!> I spent days reading the articles and FAQ here prior to setting it up. I was a little concerned about the Blueband Goby since there are articles on here about them not eating well in captivity but he eats from my hand and seems to be thriving. <Great!> I tend to keep my fish around a long time and wanted the same for him. Keep up the good work guys. Aaron <Will do, thank you, Scott V.>

Aqua C Customer Service 2/29/08
Hi Bob,
Now this is what I call great customer service. Had a problem with my Aqua C.
See response below.
James
Hi James,
I didn't know you were part of the WWM crew! I've had the chance to hang out with Bob and several others (Pete, Mike, Eric, and Michelle) on several occasions - all great people!
I'm not sure what's causing the wet foam, but we can do one of two things. I can either send you one of the extended collection cups, which is taller and will give the foam more time to drain, or you can send the skimmer in for testing, and if we find any problems with the skimmer, we'll be happy to repair or replace it for you. If you want us to test it, you can just send that in to the address below along with a short note explaining why it's being sent in, and be sure to include your return address. Send me an email if / when you decide to ship that out, so I'll have an idea of when to expect it. Use a box large enough to have 3-4" packing material on each side of the skimmer (see attached diagram), and we recommend insuring the package as well. Let me know what you decide!
- - - - - - - - - - - Steve Prince Customer Service Manager AquaC, Inc.7949 Stromesa Ct., Ste. E San Diego, CA 92126
<Outstanding... as usual. BobF>

AquaC Remora Setup 2/23/08
I have just purchased a aqua c remora with maxi jet 1200 and am wondering how to attach the maxi jet 1200 on. Do I just slip one end on the remora and put the adapter on the other end and put the skimmer box over the pump and I am ready to go?
<This is exactly how you set this skimmer up, yes.>
A picture of how it should look when hooked up would be fantastic.
<I don’t have any pictures to offer, but I can direct you to the AquaC website where you will find PDF files on exactly how to set these up. Have fun, Scott V.>
http://proteinskimmer.com/Other%20Pages/Downloads%20and%20Tutorials.htm

AquaC EV240 Producing Microbubbles 2/16/08
Hello Gents - and thanks again for the fantastic resource. If only we all followed all the advice you give us!
<Heee…and if gas were back to $1 a gallon!>
Here's my dilemma - I have a 150XH fish only tank with a large wet dry and a Living Color coral insert.
I run an Aqua C EV 240 on my reef and have one for this tank as well.
I installed a new wet dry this week. Problem is that the skimmer is putting a tone of micro bubbles back into the display.
<Was it doing this before the new wet/dry? The same manufacturing residues/oils that can cause a new skimmer to spit out microbubbles are present in the new sump. You may just need some time.>
The sump is as follows - 40" long. From right to left, the tank drains into a 26" area of bio balls. I don’t have enough room in the cabinet, so I use a submersible Mag9 as the return pump. Due to the fact that the last area of the sump is the only 'open' area, it’s crowded. I have the Mag 9 tank return pump, the Ev240 and the Mag 18 that feeds the 240.
<According to the AquaC website this pump overdrives this skimmer and may need to be throttled down a bit. This could be playing a factor in bubble return.>
The skimmer water returns right to the area where the tank return pump is.
<Tough situation, even the slightest amount of bubbles will be returned to the tank.>
Unfortunately, I have VERY little space in that open area so I'm hoping to solve this problem.
Any ideas? I can call Jason Kim on Monday as well.
Thanks
J
<I would definitely contact Jason Kim for his input. In the meantime, you may want to try either some filter foam or filter sock types of materials between the skimmer output and the return pump to help catch the bubbles. Welcome and good luck, Scott V.>

Skimmer Pump Choices 2/11/08
With a slew of choices out there I am confused. I am presently looking at the AquaC ev120 for my 125 gallon tank.
<This is a good choice for this size tank.>
Also looking to purchase a rio 2100 or a mag 5 to power the skimmer. Your thoughts.
<I would choose the Mag over the Rio.>
BTW, noise is a factor in selecting the pump. Your thoughts pls
<You may also want to look at an Eheim or Oceanrunner pump of comparable flow; they tend to be much quieter and reliable. Have fun, Scott V.>

Skimmer Malfunction 1/10/08
Hi –
<Hello.>
I've run an AquaC EV-120 on my 75g for several years and it's been great. The other day it stopped foaming. Water and air are still bubbling
at the base of the foam tower, but no foam. This has happened occasionally in the past and it's usually because the water-intake valve gets gunk caught in it where it pinches down to create the spray.
<Happens.>
No problem; it's easy to pull out and clean (water and a dedicated brush are all I use). However, it did not resume foaming as usual. In thinking about the problem, I realized that I threw a sponge filter from my brand new quarantine tank into the sump at about the same time it stopped foaming. Is this the cause? Were there oils on the synthetic sponge that are temporarily changing the surface tension of my aquarium water?
<This could be the cause, it can happen.>
And if so, is this a temporary problem that I can wait out or should I do something about it?
<Should just be temporary. Maybe even pull the new foam out and your skimmer should start working within a day or so if this is the cause.>
Your thoughts are appreciated.
<Other factors could be anything else new to the tank (of course). Also certain foods or additives can cause this. I would also take a look at the skimmer’s feed pump to make sure the flow is unobstructed. You may even consider cleaning the impeller/magnet in some vinegar to decalcify. >
Thanks!
Ed
<Welcome, I hope this helps out, Scott V.>

Aqua C Urchin troubles 12/18/07
Let me thank you first for being a great source of info. But let me get right into my problem. I have a 65gal moderately stocked coral tank with a few small fish, 50# LR and a 20gal sump. After going through your site and the rave reviews I bought an Aqua C Urchin Pro with the Mag3.
<Yes, nice skimmer.>
The tank has been setup for about 2 years and the skimmer was installed about 2 months ago. The problem I am having is even with an under/over/under bubble trap in my sump, the tank is constantly being flooded with micro bubbles from the skimmer. I do not add any additives such as stress coat, and I rarely put my hands in the water. The sump is plumbed with sch 40 pvc. The sump flows about 400gph. I spoke with Steve at Aqua C, and he said it is normal for this to happen. It is very unsightly to see this in a show tank. Any suggestions? Thank you in advance for your help.
<A simple piece of filtration foam cut to fit between the baffles (I would put it where the water comes over and back under) will keep most, if not all, bubbles from reaching your display. Welcome, good luck, Scott V.>
Nitrate: undetectable
pH: 8.1
Ammonia: undetectable
Phosphate: undetectable
SG: 1.025
Calcium: 480
Alkalinity: 3 <meq/L I assume.>
Temp: 82 day/78 night

Aqua C Remora, op./noise issue  12/15/2007
Hey guys, love the site. I have a 26 gallon bow front FOWLR. I bought an Aqua C Remora with the MaxiJet 1200 3 weeks ago because of the info I found on your site. While it seems to be working well, about a half cup of gunk every few days. My issue is with the noise, in the instructions it says the noise and bubbles will decrease over time but has not. Being that the tank is in my bedroom the noise can get quite annoying. Is there anyway to decrease the noise?
<Mmm, possibly... by adjusting the flow, mix... or possibly switching out the pump (if this is the source of most the noise) for an Eheim hobby pump (MUCH quieter)...>
Or would it be ok to put the unit on a timer, maybe 12 hours on 12 hours off. Would it still be effective?
<Yes, might be the best idea here>
And would it cut down the life of the pump?
<Not appreciably>
Thanks for your help. -Joe
<Lastly, though it is not likely, this unit might be defective. If in doubt, do call on Jason or Steve at Aqua-C... they are both very customer service oriented... and fine young gentlemen as well. Cheers, Bob Fenner>

Quick Skimmer Question, Op., Aqua-C, surface skimmer attachment  – 12/11/07
Hello,
<<Evening>>
I just have a really quick skimmer question.
<<Okay>>
I have read on the WetWeb site, however have not found an answer...
<<I see>>
I just bought a brand new AquaC Remora Skimmer w/ the Maxi Jet 1200 upgraded pump for my 55gal.
<<A most worthwhile investment>>
I'm definitely excited about this upgrade, and it should be here within the week. My question is this: Can I attach the standard "surface skimmer" (not the item you can purchase from AquaC) but the "In store" version?
<<I’m not familiar with this device, but yes, it will probably serve>>
It's simply an intake tube connected to a regulator that, when attached to the pump/filter/etc. brings in water from the top and middle/bottom of the aquarium. (They sell for about $12 in most LFS's). I hope that's a good description.
<<Good enough, yes>>
I already own one, and don't think it will hurt to add, correct?
<<Agreed…as long as it allows the pump to pull in enough water/does not “starve” the pump>>
Also, I went into the LFS the other day and saw one of the best looking aquariums I have seen... It's the "Current Solana Aquarium Systems 34gal tank."
<<Ah yes…I saw one of these just this past week>>
This comes with a globe shaped silver housing for a metal halide light fixture.
<<Yes…looks quite interesting>>
Have you heard of these?
<<Only just>>
They're expensive, (at about $550 for all above) but they look great.
<<It is an attractive unit…though I do take issue with these “all in one” back-of-the-tank filtration systems as the filters/skimmers are usually lacking>>
Thanks in advance for your help!
Eric
<<My pleasure to provide. Eric Russell>>

Skimmer choice 11/29/07
Hey guys
<Hello Matt.>
I have a 400 liter reef with a Turboflotor 1000 protein skimmer which I’m not happy with. It only pulls about 1 inch of dark green stuff every week. I have 2 clowns, 3 snails, 8 very small unidentified hermits (can't find ID anywhere, but they do a great job of cleaning the sand of diatoms), and 1 coral. The tank is 2 years old and I have just noticed some hair algae starting to appear. I want to replace the skimmer. The two I like the most are the AquaC Remora Pro and the Deltec MCE600. The Deltec is more expensive but I believe it comes with a built in pump(?).
<Yes it does.>
Whereas the AquaC does not come with a pump. Any thoughts on these 2 choices of skimmer?
Thanks in advance. Matt.
<They have both been proven great skimmers, hard choice. This comes down to your personal preference. With the AquaC you will have a pump in your tank. If this bothers you then that may be your deciding factor. For the money I would personally choose the Remora Pro. The skimmer should help, but don’t expect a cure all for the hair algae, something is spurring its growth. You can read through the FAQs for more info, I would start here
http://wetwebmedia.com/algaeconMar.htm
Welcome, happy reefing, Scott V.>

Feel free not to post this. Unhappy with his Aqua-C  8/14/07
Hey all.
<Hello>
Based on what I've read over the past couple of months on this site, I purchased an Aqua C Remora (Maxi Jet 1200 pump) for my 65g mixed reef to-be. A week prior to adding 70lbs of nice, cured live rock (cured yes, but definitely smelling of a limited degree of decaying matter) from my LFS. A week prior, I began running my new Remora to "break it in", so it'd be ready to start skimming once I added my rock. Well, it's been a week now, and from the skimmer I'm getting the same daily collection of 1/5 of a cup of cloudy water that I was before adding the rock. Definitely not anything that would qualify as skimmate. When I move the O-ring down to raise the cup in hope of getting dryer foam, I get absolutely nothing. Feeling curious, and a bit frustrated, I decided to search the popular reef forums for other folks' experiences with the Remora. To my astonishment, I found the consensus of opinions regarding it's performance to be less then mediocre--and in many cases quite bad.
Now I consider your crew to be the most reliable source of info regarding this hobby, which is why I went out of my way to invest in the Remora. But I have a bad feeling that I was steered wrong in this case, and there are too many negative testimonials (check the "Aqua C Club" at RC) identical to mine for me to believe that I just unluckily received a "lemon", or that I installed a "peach" incorrectly. Yes, I will contact your friend in San Diego for technical advice. Just saying...
Sincerely,
Eric S.
<Everyone has different experiences with products, all I can add is I have been running an Aqua-C Remora for 5 years now and am very happy with its performance, but of course not everyone has had the same experience. I do encourage you to contact Aqua-C and see if they can help you out. I will add the perhaps the bio-load is just not high enough to get a lot of skimmate right now, but time will tell.>
<Chris>

AquaC – 7/3/07
First let me say what a terrific job you all do for the marine hobbyists. While I don't have a question today, I would like to use this forum to more publicly thank Jason Kim at AquaC for his courtesy, generosity, and rapid response. Mr. Fenner, et al, have frequently commented on the excellence of the AquaC skimmer products and, as I use an Urchin Pro on my 90 gal. reef, I couldn't agree more. These skimmers without a doubt offer the biggest bang for the buck. You have also commented on what a great person and business owner Jason is. Again, I wholeheartedly agree.
<Ahh!>
It is rare that products and companies fully live up to their advertising and marketing, but AquaC surpasses expectations as a product and a business. Please pass this along.
<Will do so>
Once again, thank you, Mr. Kim. And thanks to the folks at WWM.
Roger Lea
Prescott Valley, AZ
<Thank you for your kind, encouraging words. Bob Fenner>

Skimmer types... Not liking his AquaC  – 07/03/07
Hi crew-
Thanks for a wonderful aqua portal!
I have a CPR SR-4 in the sump of my 75g reef tank.
I am not sure about the efficiency of "Rejuvenation Venturi Technology", as they call it, and have not been thrilled with the nutrient export performance of this skimmer.
Are these low-grade skimmers?
<Mmm, no, not IMO>
I have been considering an upgrade to a used Euro-Reef RS80.
<Also a good unit, product in my estimation>
Any sense of how much better this unit might perform?
<Perhaps a bit better, but not a big difference>
Got any advice for me?
So long (and thanks for all the fish)
jimgray
<Heeee! It may be that the make-up of your system/water at this point has little to skim... Bob Fenner... Not Doug Adams, but alive... and will gladly settle for the difference>

Big Change: Water Evaporation   6/24/07
Hello WWM,
<Hello, GrahamT here tonight!>
You are a tremendous resource and we can't thank you enough for the time and effort your whole team puts in to making this wonderful hobby even more enjoyable. The daily questions are a daily read for us - more so than the newspaper. Thank you again.
<Thank you for your kind words on behalf of our dedicated crew! I am convinced that reading the dailies... well, daily, can make an advanced hobbyist out of any of us!.>
We have a 75 gallon FOWLR which has been running nicely for three years now. As per your recommendation, we upgraded to a Remora Pro skimmer about six weeks ago. This has been maybe the best thing we have ever done for our tank. Producing an incredible amount of the nasty green stuff.
<Very good to hear. Some people can fine tune the amount of food they give by the amount of gunk collected in their skimmers.>
When we first introduced the skimmer, we had a difficult time keeping the temperature steady as the Mag 3 pump gave us 4-5 degree fluctuation daily. It was easily fixed by adding a small fan blowing across the top of the tank.
<Ahh, yes... evaporative cooling can be very useful and economical.>
Our tank temperature is now consistent at 76 degrees. The problem we are having is with water evaporation.
<Hence the term, "Evaporative cooling".>
Before adding the skimmer, we would have to add a couple gallons every couple days or so. Now we have to add three to four gallons per day.
<Happens, I'm afraid...>
There are no leaks anywhere and we are wondering why this is the case. At first we though maybe it was due to summertime, but we haven't had this issue in the past.
<You're experiencing one of the drawbacks to evaporative cooling. Really, there isn't much to say here, since slowing down the evaporation means warming the tank. You should be ok with letting the temps rise slowly to 78-degrees, if you have a lower speed for the fan you use. Other than that, I think you're stuck with it. One thing you need to watch out for with increased water-loss through evaporation is the problem of concentrated "leave-behinds" that are being reintroduced every time you top-off, and as the water leaves, the levels are rising. If you use purified water and perform frequent water changes, this may not be a concern. Food for thought...>
Thanks in advance for your help,
Tracy and Scott
<You are most welcome, folks!
-GrahamT>

Remora Skimmer Broken?  6/23/07
So I have a 55G reef tank with a variety of soft corals, inverts, and a small number of reef safe fish (anthias, shrimp goby, etc.) I have a HO filter that I run chem-zorb and Purigen in. Tank has been up and running for two years. No problems, no worries.
Ammonia/Nitrite 0ppm
Nitrate 5 ppm (But steadily Rising)
Calcium 450ppm
<A bit high... your alkalinity hopefully isn't suffering as a consequence... I would be testing>
Anyway the core issue of this question is the protein skimmer. I have an aqua remora HO that over the course of the past month has decreased the amount of waste until it is now not producing anything.
<Happens... your system is "centering" in a fashion in which there isn't much of anything to remove in this fashion>
I have contacted Steve at AquaC and he is trying to help but seems to be out of options. I have cleaned and scrubbed the whole unit,
<Highly unlikely it's the skimmer itself...>
including removing the screw on top and cleaning that passageway. I have the optional box that the pump sits in. A few days ago I picked up a new pump praying that would solve the problem, it didn't. The water just isn't reaching the tube, it isn't really even close. According to Steve replacing the pump should solve the problem. Is there anything that can be broken, or wrong per se with the skimmer unit itself?
<Nothing likely "wrong" here period>
Nothing else with the tank has changed. There is no new equipment (besides the new pump), there is no new livestock. The feeding has never changed from two frozen Mysis cubes per day. I just can't figure out what the issue
is with this because, as you are well aware, the skimmer is essential, vital to the health of the tank. The corals already look unhappy, I am doing frequent water changes to try to compensate.
Any thoughts?
Much appreciated.
<I would NOT worry re... but I WOULD keep it running... and measure your alkaline reserve. If you'd like to read re other folks having the same experience you can scan the WWM FAQs re Skimmer Op./Maint... Bob Fenner>

Re: Remora Skimmer Broken?   6/24/07
So there is an interesting update to report. I took my other remora skimmer, same kind of unit, same kind of pump, off of my FOWLR tank and installed it on the reef tank where the skimmer is not producing anything. Within minutes the skimmer from the FOWLR tank began producing thick, copious amounts of waste. So I wonder again, can the skimmer itself be broken? Two remora units, the same age, the same pump, the same tank, one works one does not. And the one that does not has the advantage of the skimmer box and a brand new pump. What could possibly be wrong with this skimmer? Thoughts?
Thanks again.
<Mmmm... either the aspiration device or... I'd ship it back to Aqua-C for their look/see. B>

Skimmer Installation – 6/8/07
Hey. <Hey!> I have a question about installing my protein skimmer. I recently purchased an AquaC Remora Pro with a Mag 3 pump for my 55 gallon mixed reef. I have a medium to high bioload so I went for the bigger skimmer. <Smart. I wish I had gotten the pro version.>
I'm writing because I read somewhere that skimming is much less efficient if the water is drawn from anywhere other than the top inch of the aquarium and would like your opinion on this. <True, but may be exaggerated.> I have recently noticed quite a bit of dust and oil on the water's surface but unfortunately have no way of installing a sump or any sort of overflow in my current setup. <I threw together a siphon overflow box and a sump made from a Rubbermaid container, returning with a Maxi-jet 1200. Very simple. At a minimum, you can and should remove the dust and oil with paper towels by hand. Even a skimmer box might not get a persistent oil slick.> I wanted to run an idea by you and was wondering if this is worth doing and if it would work. I wanted to install a few elbows and a short section of pvc pipe to basically bring the prefilter up horizontally at the very top of the aquarium. This would draw the water from the top 1-2 inches of water and maybe even some from the surface, all depending on water level of course. I understand that this runs a risk of sucking in air <yes, would have to keep the perfect level constantly for this to be at all effective> and even possibly running the pump dry and burning out the motor, but I top my tank off everyday and would install it low enough to compensate for a few days evaporation. This would of course extend the length of the intake pipe and add a few turns to it. I estimated the total length of the intake pipe including the 3 elbows would be about 15 inches. Do you think this would significantly reduce the pump's output? <Yes, and this is the biggest thing affecting the performance of the AquaC skimmers.> Is this something worth doing, or am I just making things difficult? <I think this is over complicating it. They do offer a skimmer box to fit over the pump that will accomplish this for you with fewer losses. If you want to DIY, you could use the concept of a box with slits at the top as a container for your pump, instead of inline piping. I personally found that the reduction in pump efficiency from being in the box was more than the benefit of skimming from the top of the water. Mine skims best without the skimmer box. And you will have the same problem with the fluctuating water levels. When the tank water drops, the pump will suck air and you have to train any house mates and tank sitters what that means to avoid burnt out pumps, or get an automatic top off system. Much easier to install a sump.> Thank
you for you input. Jon
<You are welcome. Alex.>

Here is a quick sketch of my idea, to help illustrate it.

^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^^ water level
..........................
l prefilter l
l................... l
l l
l l
l l
l l
l l
l l l l outflow to skimmer
l l l l
l l ........l......l........
l l l l
l l l l
l l l l
l l l mag 3 l
l l l l
l l l.....................l
l l l l
l l l l
l l...............l l
l.............................l intake
 

Re: Remora question   5/25/07
Hi Bob,
    Thanks so much for forwarding my question to Jason Kim at AquaC.  Turns out their office is right down the street from mine so we've resolved the
issue (in record time taboot) and I'm going there tomorrow to see about getting a replacement.  You guys rock!  =D
Ed
<Ah, we are all in about the same neighborhood! BobF>

Re: Remora question – 5/25/07
Hi Bob,
<Ed>
     It is indeed a small world.  Are you in San Diego as well?
<Yes... same zip... 92126, in East La Jolla... Okay, Mira Mesa...>
    Quick update:  I met with Jason this morning and he confirmed that yes my skimmer was leaking through the main baffle and he provided me a new skimmer body as well as letting me keep the old one (which I think I can seal and use as a backup or for another tank later).  Jason is a super nice, stand up guy for sure.  Thanks again for hooking me up.  I think you've helped me more in setting up my new tank than anyone...and you didn't even know it!  I greatly appreciate you, your time and knowledge and your website  =D
Ed
<A pleasure and honor to serve. BobF>

AquaC EV120, A satisfied customer   5/20/07
Hi Everyone!
<Hi David, Mich here.>
I am currently in the process of curing my live rock.  I have a 125-gallon tank with a 25-gallon sump and a 50-gallon refugium with 150 pounds of Lalo rock from Drs. Foster Smith.  I chose the EV120 as the best skimmer I could afford based on my research.  
<An excellent choice!  I too use an AquaC Skimmer and am very impressed with its design and performance.>
I had it running for about  2 to 3 weeks and then all of a sudden when cleaning the collection cup I noticed millions of cracks radiating from around the drain fitting, some inches long.  
<Uh-oh!>
I contacted Marinedepot.com who I had purchased it from and copied in AquaC.  My Email was sent on a Saturday. By the end of the day I had a response from Marinedepot.com.  On Monday I was contacted by both Marinedepot.com and by several people at AquaC, the president of AquaC included.
<Yes, Jason Kim and Steve Prince are wonderful people, both professionally and personally.>
The replacement part was shipped on Monday and I had it in my hand by Thursday.  I offered to ship back the old cup but they declined so I didn't have to do anything but send a few emails.  
<I'm not surprised.>
I have never had a problem with a product that was resolved so easily without mounds of paperwork, hours on the phone etc. The people treated me like they were getting a huge sale from me, not just fixing my small problem.  
<This is wonderful to hear.>
Marinedepot.com does not always have the cheapest prices on all items, but there is a whole package to consider.  Getting a problem like that fixed immediately is worth paying a few bucks more.  
<I would attribute your positive experience more to AquaC, they have a reputation of producing a high quality product with superior customer service, not that there is anything wrong with Marinedepot.com.>  
The EV120 works like a champ, I can't empty it fast enough. It quickly fills with a thick density green foam. When I go to work I put the hose in a 5-gallon bucket because I am afraid it will pull out enough to flood my utility room.
<Yikes!>
The design is also easy to clean and quiet.  
<Yes.>
If you are in the market for a skimmer I would definitely buy one from Marinedepot.com.  I stumbled across AquaC here so thought you might like to know my experiences with them.
<Thank you for sharing!  It is always nice to read a letter of satisfaction!>
Sincerely,
David Matza
<Again, thank you for contributing!  Mich>

HOT about Aqua-C’s HOTB Skimmers…  – 05/07/07
I've been in the reefing hobby for a couple years and the fish hobby as a whole for around 20 or so.
<Okay…>
I've built my own skimmers and have modded many as well.  
<Neat.>
I'm not quite sure why the aqua c remora pro is still recommended by your moderators?  
<Oh and on to the meat of the query…a loaded question…Well Luke unlike you I’m not going to list my aquarium credentials here I’m just going to let facts and logical anecdotes speak for themselves.  First off you said moderators so I don’t know if you meant those who keep up our chat forums or the crew who answers queries…..I’ll assume it’s the latter. I know that me personally, and many current and past members of the crew including Bob (as seen in his writings, advice) have had very good experiences with the Aqua-C company as a whole.  They are consistent at building quality equipment that is simple yet effective to use, when used properly. Many aquarists send us in anecdotes on there dealings with the company, and have told us that they are not only very helpful when it comes to advice on their products but are very professional and quick to respond to problem arising with the products…helping their customers troubleshoot and make the product work as it was intended.  As far as the remora-pro, I recommend it to the casual aquarists on a regular basis because of it’s simplicity of use for the most part and the reputation of the company, rather than fringe companies who are “iffy” untested.  While there are better skimmers out there, the Remora is still near the top of the list for hang-on applications.  In fact the only Hang on skimmers I prefer to it are the Deltec…but it is considerably more pricey.  I understand that you are a DIY and modder type guy but you have to understand that most aquarists are not.  I find it also important to point out that we do not recommend this product exclusively it is simply another option that we give, there are other brands mentioned just as much in the FAQ’s.>
The remora pro is an outdated skimmer
<How so? Most skimmer designs haven’t changed much over the years other than that some of the previously high end-designs have become more economical for the public to own, i.e. recirculating models and that brands previously not attainable in the U.S. are now available, i.e. bubble king, Deltec and H&S.>
that may have served well years ago but has been surpassed by many cheaper alternatives.
<Again proof, examples please…data?>
The remora pro says it will pull a full cup of dark green skimmate once every two weeks, no matter how large the system.
<Well first off I wouldn’t use the remora pro on a system that is 80 gallons or larger. Again the remora is made to feel a niche, as a hang on skimmer and it does this application quite well…are there other larger skimmers that are better suited to larger systems…of course. And personally I have seen the remora, and many other skimmers, pull out a cup of day of skimmate when properly tuned; see Anthony Calfo's writings for more on skimmer adjustments in general.  Another thing to keep in mind is that the Aqua-C’s use a different design than most of the other skimmers out there, air-induction I believe they call it…while a lot of other companies seem to go the way of the needlewheel or Becketts.  All designs have there pros and cons and it is a personal choice...my observation with the Aqua-C’s is that they are more difficult to break in and fine-tune but once they are, work just as well as any other design.>
A cup every other week is far from decent imo <”In my opinion”>
<Mine as well, and again set-up properly your skimmer should be able to produce more than this, please do see the Anthony Calfo readings I mentioned.>
and I just wanted to see what the reasoning was behind this.  
<Well you have my answer but as far as I can see you aren’t attempting to converse really….you may want to contact Aqua-C directly.>
The Bermuda HOT, D&D typhoon, Odyssea ps160 and a handful of others are much better and much cheaper.
<Cheaper yes…better I’d be inclined to disagree. Keep in mind that experiences are anecdotal and that many aquarists are not willing to modify and tweak…we live in an instant gratification (plug and play world). whether that’s good or not, that’s how it is.>
Just wanted to pass along the info.
<Duly Noted my friend.>
And keep up the good fight, you guys do a great job with the volume of questions you get and this site has great info available.
Thanks,
<Welcome.>
Luke Woehler
<Adam Jackson.>

Aqua-C input, who is this?  – 05/08/07
Thanks for forwarding Bob, I have no idea who that is.  I appreciate Adam's response, he took a lot of time to write that out!  Feel free to have Luke
contact me directly if he has any specific questions or had a problem with his Remora Pro.
-------------------------
Jason Kim
<Thank you Jas. BobF>
President
AquaC, Inc.
visit us online at...
www.proteinskimmer.com

A Positive Note on Aqua-C's Skimmers...
Dear Adam or whatever crew member may be responding to this,
<Adam at your service...on the self-appointed insomniac shift.>
I was reading the daily FAQ's, which I find interesting and resourceful.
<Thank you.>
You recently had a fan write in about how the Aqua C skimmer is inferior and outdated. I just had to laugh out loud to myself. This isn't a question more than it is a statement. I personally own an Aqua C Remora, and it has performed nothing short of outstanding. I encourage your team to keep encouraging your readers to purchase one of these fine skimmers. Not only is
the company more than willing to assist the average customer, their product does exactly as they claim. Once again, I found it amusing how many people write to the crew with ridiculous opinions and excuses. Keep up the sound advice,
<Thank you for sharring, Eric.>
Eric
Virginia Tech Graduate '07
<Adam J...and congrats on graduating, I shouldn't be to far behind you (In Junior year here in Cal-State System).>

Skimmer Problems...Looking For New Choices - 05/01/07
Hello,
<<Morning Ron>>
I was hoping that someone could pass on a little guidance and possibly some past experience.
<<Happy to share what I can...>>
My skimmer malfunctioned over the weekend causing a major flood.
<<Mmm, yes...does happen...and one reason I am fond of "in-sump" skimmer models/installations>>
I have been wanting to replace it (AquaC Remora Pro) because I have not been happy with its performance.
<<Hmm, generally a very good skimmer choice.  Have you tried contacting Jason Kim (owner) at AquaC?  I am sure he would do his best to help determine/fix the problem>>
There are so many choices and everyone says this one is great and that one is excellent.  Very confusing.
<<Indeed...and does help to hear from those who own/use the models you are interested in to help "you" make an informed decision>>
My setup is a 75 GAL with a 37 Gal sump.  My quantity of live rock is increasing every month.  I have a moderate fish load; four Tangs and the rest is small stuff.  I would like to start adding corals to the tank.  The skimmer and live rock are my primary filtration.
<<I see>>
Could you offer any suggestions to help me make a sensible choice?
<<I think I can, yes.  My current fave skimmer is the Euro-Reef.  I employ an older model CS12-3 on my system...I think the RS100 would be about perfect for your system with an average stocking load, or the RS135 if you plan to stock heavy.  Though I haven't used one myself, I've been quite impressed with what I have seen of the H&S skimmers...quality construction employing Eheim pumps...and the performance looks very similar to the Euro-Reef in my experience.  Either of these skimmer brands would serve you well>>
Thank you for your time,
Ron
<<Happy to assist...  I do think the AquaC line is also a good choice, especially for systems in your size range (excellent quality/value for the price)...perhaps their in-sump model (Urchin Pro) would suit better.  Regardless of what brand you choose, I suggest you still give Jason a call and discuss your issues with the Remora Pro.  EricR>>

Re: Skimmer Problems...Looking For New Choices - 05/01/07
Thank you so much for your help; it's time to do a little comparative shopping.
<<Yes indeedy>>
I will definitely contact AquaC.
<<Please do, at least give Jason the opportunity to address your concerns/issues...you may find you don't need another skimmer after all>>
Thanks so much.
<<Quite welcome.  Eric Russell>>

Customer Feedback, Aqua-C  – 04/22/07
Dear Mr. Kim,
<Hey Jason!>
We first learned about the Aqua-C protein skimmers on Bob Fenner's amazing web-site http://www.wetwebmedia.com <http://www.wetwebmedia.com/>  .  Our 130 gallon reef tank has used an EV-120 operating continuously for 18 months
now.  What a great skimmer!  It is easy to clean and works very well.
We are writing to thank you for the fine product, and to thank you for supporting one of our favorite websites for aquarium research and expert advice.
Sincerely,
JB Fite  
FITE BROS L.L.C.
<Thank you for CC'ing me/us JB. Much appreciated. Bob Fenner>

AquaC - EV-180 Collection Cup Drain – 4/17/07
Hey Guys
<Hi Jim, Brenda here>
Quick question on an EV-180 I just bought 2nd hand.  The manual states that using the collection cup drain is optional.  However, they don’t tell you what to do with it in order for the cup to fill past it if not using it?
<You will need to empty the skimmer’s collection cup when it gets to this point.  <<Or plug it. RMF>> Why not use the drain option?  All you need is some tubing connected to the drain, use a small plastic container, such as a 12 oz. soda bottle.  The collection cup on the EV-180 is not very large.  It will likely need to be emptied often to be functioning properly.>
I know this may be a dumb question, but my last skimmer (Urchin Pro) didn’t have one, and I don’t really have room to add one either.
<This skimmer will usually take some getting used to, and some adjusting.  AquaC has great customer service.  I have had to contact them myself when I first started using it.  Don’t hesitate to contact them.  Their website is: http://www.proteinskimmer.com
Thanks, Jim B.
<You’re welcome!  Good luck with your new purchase!  Brenda>

Re: AquaC Drain   4/19/07
Bob,
   I seen your suggestion from yesterdays FAQs regarding plugging the AquaC EV-180 drain.  It won't skim if you do this.  It is important that that drain remains open.  Once the skimmate reaches a certain level in the collection cup  (without using the drain) it will stop skimming.
   Brenda
<Thank you for this... of course, the cup has to be drained at some point... but I thought the capping would give the reader/s more time twixt... Will accrue. BobF>

Re: Was: Mercury UV sterilizer bulbs, now more skimmer, AquaC ref.  2/28/07
Bob,
Thanks so much!  I agree about the opportunity cost issue.  Good point.
Turns out my city offers a "toxic waste day" once a year they will take whatever you have and deal with it.
<Ah, good>
  This is not a huge issue, but I think I needed something else to worry about for a break from worrying about the dang BGA.
<I can and do understand>
To clarify, my sump is about 10 gal of water in a 19 gal Rubbermaid container.  I am never sure which measurement to describe.  The amount of water seems most relevant.  I agree, I will be doing more with this area very soon.  It is the weak link in my system.
<Ahh!>
I threw it together to try and keep some algae going for my tangs, and the algae didn't make it, but I like having the increased water volume/surface area and a place for critters to grow.  I will be upgrading this area soon.  I did get a real overflow box to replace my homemade one (which worked but didn't have enough elevation change to get a fast flow rate).  I will be reading and planning to enhance this part of my system.
<Good>
This morning my tank looked awesome before the lights came on, not much algae to be seen.  Afraid to get my hopes up as it always goes crazy during the day when the lights are on, but it did look significantly better.  The UV installed last night could be helping already with the water quality.  I will let you know how this turns out.  If the UV makes a significant difference in the algae, I'd like to share that with others.  
<Please do>
Speaking of lights, I see conflicting views on the impact of lighting on the BGA.  I don't think my lighting should be a problem, although it does grow like crazy when the lights are on, and recede when they are off.  I have a brand new Coralife Deluxe PC w/ daylight and actinic (4 x 96 W total).  There shouldn't be a problem with dimness or frequency shifts.  I have not tried starving it of light, as that doesn't seem to be recommended and doesn't seem like it would be too good for the other tank inhabitants for very long.
<Agreed>
  I had half the wattage before this new fixture, also PC, and the new lights had no effect on the algae (nor did replacing the bulbs in the old fixture).
<Other issues...>
The area I have been struggling with is my skimmer, which I added hoping to fix or at least improve the algae problem.  I searched all your skimmer pages for details about what else I could possibly tweak to get more out of my Remora.  I emailed Steve at Aqua-C,
<A very nice fellow... He and Jason (Kim) were out visiting a few months ago in Hawai'i... They are "fishing fools!" as well as earnest entrepreneurs.>
and he felt I am getting enough skimmate (under 1/4"/day usually).  I think I should be getting more, with 3 tangs, maroon clown, a damsel, a flame angel, watchman goby (15 inches total fish) and a few shrimps and crabs, Xenia, Euphyllia, mushroom polyps, Zoanthids, and live rock.
<Mmm, the amount and quality of skimmate depends much on other influences... that you are getting some is indicative that the unit is working...>
Last night I tried taking off the skimmer box (I know that should only make it worse)
to see if easier flow to the pump might help, and had 1/2" this morning, an apparent improvement, but that doesn't make sense.  The only other thing I can tweak is the water level in the tank. I had already raised it some and that seemed to help the first day, but then it dropped back off.  Do you know what water level might be optimal for the Remora with the Maxi-jet 1200 pump?
<About half an inch of water below the collector cup...>
Do you know what else I can try to improve its performance?
<Definitely no more or better than Steve or Jason>
I used to have a modified Lee's (I made it longer), which worked really well, but replacing the wood diffusers was really the only problem and everyone said we had to go venturi.
<This is a feeble unit... only fine for very small, way-under-populated systems...>
Then I had a useless Sea-Clone (bought right before I discovered your site!!).  I was expecting great things from the Remora.  I am afraid I am missing something obvious, or I got a dud.  It seems pretty foolproof.
<Is... likely your system is in a sort of "balance mode"... not much to actually skim>
  But I know there is a lot of nasty stuff in my tank, and am not getting as much skimmate as I should.  I have cleaned the injector.  The collection cup is set to the lowest point.  I am out of ways to tweak the unit.  I have tried cleaning and tried not cleaning the riser tube.  Should I try a different pump??  
<Mmm, not likely... Do give Jason.K a call here though>
I would really like to have to empty the cup every day or at most every other day.
I should have good oxygenation, good water movement (filter, sump return, 2 power heads, and now UV return), good lights, mechanical/chemical filtration (Emporer w/ bio-wheels, alternating change of filter cartridge), denitration from live rock and small plenum and aragonite substrate (still trying to read and understand why some of you don't like this substrate).  SG 1.025, nitrates 0, phosphate 0, pH 8.2, Ca 360, alk 8.
<Do check your Magnesium...>
Haven't retested since adding 2-part Ca/buffer (Kent) a few days. I expect Ca and alk to improve.
<What you relate is fine>
Before I had any coral I maintained Ca and buffer from aragonite substrate and water changes.  Increased demand is affecting this I think.  And I got a 32 gal Rubbermaid trash can to get set up to do larger water changes with aged water, as I have had to do 5 gal changes with my current tools.
I'm hoping my husband doesn't notice the lovely 32 gal trash can sitting in the dining room. Ha!  Oh, where do you get the dolly for moving the trash can?  Can't find at Wal-Mart or Lowes.
<Try a "Maintenance" or "Janitorial" supply type of store... Out in the west we have "Smart & Final's" that offer very nice Rubbermaid Brute units...>
If any of you have any ideas about how to further tweak my Remora, I would greatly appreciate it!
Thanks,
Alex Miller
<Bob Fenner>

Aqua C EV 200 question   2/6/07
Hello,
I have a question regarding the older Aqua C EV 200.  I recently purchased a used one of these for my future 240 gallon setup.  I am upgrading from a 135 reef.  The 240 will have SPS, LPS, and a fair fish load.  Will this skimmer be sufficient or am I in trouble?
<Mmm, I'd upgrade myself>
Also, I am wondering what the most efficient way to plumb this is.  I have seen the changes made to the newer EV-240 model and am wondering if the EV 200 can be modified to increase efficiency in any way.
<Mmm, I'd contact Jason Kim at AquaC (addy on WWM) and ask re>
  Also would like to have the Calc reactor output flow into it as the new EV 240 does.  Any thoughts or suggestions?  Thanks,
-Jason
<I'd have this discharge directly into the sump myself. Bob Fenner>

Protein Skimmer For A 210 Gallon Tank 2/1/07
Dear Crew,
<Paul>
I have a brand new Aqua C Remora HOB protein skimmer. I originally planned on setting up a 75 gallon FOWLR which is what the Aqua C was planned for. However, good fortune has allowed me to get a 210 gallon tank instead.  I know the Aqua C would not be enough for this size tank.
However, I can't return it and know how well they work.  In your opinion would I be okay if I added another Aqua C Remora and use two together.  Additionally, since I will now be able to have a sump, would it be okay to use the HOB type and one in the sump.  I thank you for your time and help as you have assisted me in the past as well.
<Sure, no such thing as overskimming.  You may be surprised with the AquaC HOB.  My feeling is they are underrated and you may be fine with this providing your animal load isn't too high.  If nuisance algae starts to invade the system, then go with an additional skimmer.  You may want to try and sell it on EBay or elsewhere and just buy one large enough for your tank.
James (Salty Dog)>
Paul Demas

One comment and two questions, Aqua-C, mud in a 'fuge and feeding Scler.    1/27/07
Hello WWM Crew,
<Bart/holomew!>
Thanks you so much for the wonderful service you provide.  I wanted to comment on the great service I received recently from one of your sponsors.  I love my Aqua-C skimmer!  The O-ring dried out and cracked (as O-rings do). I made one phone call, waited two days and TWO new O-rings arrived in the mail.  No muss, no fuss, and NO CHARGE!
<Hee heee, Freeeeeee!>
This is a great company and they will be skimming for me till I no longer need to skim.  Now, two quick questions if I may:  I am running a closed-loop return manifold that I constructed using Anthony's informative article on my 72 gallon bow-front reef system.  It was fun to build and works great with the old-style external Quiet-One pump that I have.  My question has to do with the intake.  I used my miter-saw to make cuts half-way through a ¾" piece of PVC to make a strainer.  Over this I have placed a coarse sponge filter to keep the tiny snails I have all over my tank from getting into the pump.
<Good design>
  I dislike the sponge filter because I have to clean it and because I suspect it is a source of nitrate in my tank.  It is the only mechanical filter I have on the system as I use a refugium and skimming for water treatment.  Do you think I could remove the sponge?
<Mmm, no, I'd leave it, or something similar in place... as a screen>
  Would the tiny snails be able to stop the pump?
<Possibly, yes... and/or cause trouble in being crushed, dissolving...>
Secondly, I have an assortment of Caulastrea and Euphyllia corals (widely spaced, of course).  Do you have a recommendation as to a food of the appropriate particle size for feeding these animals?
<A mix of live or frozen/defrosted zooplankters... "of small size", 1/16" diameter nominally will do>
I suspect the Mysis I feed the fish is a bit large for these corals to utilize.
<Yes, likely so>
Thanks again for the good work you do.
Best Regards,
Bart V
<Welcome... Oh and please do read here: http://wetwebmedia.com/faviidfdgfaqs.htm
and here: http://wetwebmedia.com/caryfdgfaqs.htm
Bob Fenner>

Quiet and Quality Protein Skimmer    1/5/07
I have a 50 gallon salt water tank with fish and live rock.  I currently use a Prizm Deluxe PS-RS50181 Protein Skimmer.  Though the system works great, I makes too much noise.  What other options do I have for a Protein Skimmer that is "quiet".  
Thanks in advance for your help.
<I highly recommend the Remora AquaC; in fact, based on personal experience and reviews, it's likely the only skimmer I'll ever use. Best regards, Jorie>
Dan.

To Upgrade Or Not? - 12/12/06
Good Afternoon Guy's & Gals:
<<Good evening Jeremy>>
I have a quick question that I value your opinion of.
<<Okey-Dokey>>
I have a 75-gallon reef tank with a 20-gallon sump.  I currently have an AquaC Urchin skimmer rated up to 75-gallons.
<<Great little skimmers...and I had the pleasure of meeting the company owner at Bob's place in HI last month>>
Do you think this skimmer is undersized for my setup?
<<Probably not...These skimmers are "sized" very accurately...unlike the boasts of many of the lesser quality skimmer manufacturers>>
Should I look to upgrade to something a bit more substantial?
<<Up to you...why not give Jason Kim a call at AquaC (or send an email) and see what he suggests?  I'm certain he won't steer you wrong>>
The skimmer does pull out about a half a cup dark skimmate every 3-4 days.
<<Much like "watts per gallon" for lighting, there are many factors to determine "how much skimmate" your tank should be producing.  Rest assured you have a quality product>>
Bioload consists of:
*Fish:* Yellow tang, 2 blue-green Chromis, convict blenny, pink skunk clownfish, algae blenny *|* *Coral:* Ricordea yuma mushrooms, yellow polyps, devils hand (Lobophytum sp.), frogspawn (Euphyllia divisa), Torch (Euphyllia sp.), various Zoos & 2 Acropora frags *|* *Inverts:* coral-banded shrimp, 10 blue-legged hermit crabs, two astrea snails.
I plan to add maybe 1 more fish and a lot more corals.
<<Do keep in mind that "corals" place a bio-load on the system just as fish do, albeit usually somewhat less...and not without other considerations such as allelopathy>>
Your input is appreciated.
<<Hope you find it useful>>
Jeremy
<<Regards, Eric Russell>>

Protein Skimmers...Tiny Bubbles Do Not Make Me Happy 12/8/06
I'm hoping that someone there can help out with a question in regards to protein skimmers. I have an Aqua C Urchin Pro driven by a Mag 3 pump. When I turn it on it fills the top <of the> tank with micro bubbles within minutes. I have tried turning it on with different water levels in the sump, I tried all possible cup placements, no luck. I contacted Aqua C and went back and forth with them a few times and they feel it is something in the water.
<I tend to go along with them.  Some additives can/will cause this.  Have you used any additives recently?>
It's a 75 gal. tank with a 37 gal. sump. I moved the water from my 50 gal. tank into this setup and filled the remainder with saltwater that I mixed from an R/O.
The tank has been running for approximately 4 weeks. I can not run the skimmer because it fills the tank with micro bubbles.
<Ahh, did you put any Stress Coat or similar product in the water on initial set-up?>
At this point I would like to consider replacing the unit out of frustration. I have been on your site and have become very confused, some people swear by the ETSS, then others say it's too loud and cumbersome to clean because of the bio balls. Others say that Euro Reef with an Eheim motor and not the proprietary motor from the manufacturer is the way to go.
<All good skimmers, and the Euro Reef/Eheim combo is a good choice.  The Eheim pumps seem to last forever.  I like skimmers that offer the least amount of adjusting/tuning, etc.
I'm using a Tunze and find this skimmer to fall into that category very much.>
Based on what I have described can you offer any suggestions which would make this decision easier?
<I wouldn't throw the towel in yet.  Get yourself two units of Chemi-Pure and place in the sump where some water flow will go through the bags.  If there is anything in your tank that could cause the micro bubble problem, this will remove it.  I feel the Aqua C skimmers are a very good and hear very few complaints about them.>
Thank you very much in advance for your help,
<You're welcome.  James (Salty Dog)>
Ron Kennedy

Re: Protein Skimmers...Tiny Bubbles Do Not Make Me Happy 12/11/06
Sorry I just noticed a typo, I meant to say that I did use stress coat <Stress Coat> when I made up the water.
<This will definitely cause your bubble problem.>
On 12/8/06, Ron Kennedy wrote:
>> Thank you for the quick response, I did use Chemi pure <Chemi-Pure> when I made up the
> water. I actually have two new <units of> Chemi pures <Chemi-Pure> in the container. My sump is a 37
> gal. tank with a glass divider about two thirds of the way over, will it
> work if I get a specimen container drill holes in the bottom and hang it
> over the divider with the Chemi pure <Chemi-Pure> in it. Do <Does> the Chemi pure <Chemi-Pure> need to be
> fully submerged. Also, how long do you think it will take for the Chemi pure <Chemi-Pure>
> to work.
><Does need to be submerged or have water flowing through it.  The Chemi-Pure, depending on the flow rate through it, should take a couple days to remove the Stress Coat.  Please check your caps and grammar before sending so we do not have to do it.  Our time per day is very limited.>
> Thank you so much for your honesty!!!!!!!
><You're welcome.  James (Salty Dog)>

Skimmer Choices/Selection – 12/01/06
Hi all,
<<Howdy Tim>>
I'm planning on a 75g reef tank with SPS, LPS, and maybe a clam with perhaps 8 fish.  I'm having difficulty picking a skimmer that would best serve my needs.
<<Hmm, should be pretty simple...choose a reputable brand/manufacturer and follow their recommendations>>
One of my fears is that I need a skimmer which is $600+ (Euro-Reef, H&S etc.).
<<Debatable for sure...but the high-end skimmers really do perform better/give more value for money in my experience/opinion>>
Do you think this is a likely scenario or will an AquaC or less expensive skimmer be adequate?
<<I consider AquaC to be one of the better choices in skimmer selection...very good quality/customer service...an AquaC skimmer would be a fine selection>>
In addition, what is the difference between a recirculating skimmer and a non-recirculating?
<<A recirculating skimmer is generally "gravity fed" from the display tank and the pump then pulls water from/returns water too the skimmer body in a "recirculating" fashion.  A non-recirculating skimmer generally feeds water to the skimmer body through the pump from an outside source (sump)>>
And is one superior to the other.
<<The recirculating skimmers are considered by many to be superior in performance (all things being equal), but that’s not to mean the non-recirculating skimmers aren’t excellent choices as well>>
Thank You, Tim
<<Quite welcome.  EricR>>

Re: Quarantine Tank Size -- Now, a follow-up   11/24/06
Hi Bob!,
<Hey Q, JustinN with you today>
More of a comment here than a question (though I will sneak a question in towards the end!)
<Hehe, ok>
Following the advice and good reviews on this site, I replaced my Red Sea Prizm protein skimmer with an AquaC Remora.
<An excellent decision, IMO>
I received the unit about 1 week ago, gave it a quick cleaning with warm water and set it into my tank.  I was a little nervous at first because the unit was not producing any skimmate at all.  The bubbles didn't seem able to make it even half way up the neck of the collection box...  Having read (here) that these units require a "break-in" period, I shelved my concerns and sat back to wait.  
<Always a good idea with a new addition, equipment-wise>
After about the 3rd day of operation, the skimmer appeared to suddenly kick into action, producing a large volume of organic laden bubbles.  With some minor tweaking (I was very familiar with making tiny adjustments after my aggravating experience with the Prizm)
<I know this all too well, am awaiting the arrival of my Tunze DOC 9002 to replace my Prizm as well...>
I had the skimmer producing a nice dry foam that resulted in a good volume of dark skimmate... Much more than I'd ever seen from the Prizm.
<Excellent to hear>
Thank you for the great advice.
<Hehe, wish I could take credit for this one *grin*>
What do you think about the twice a week, small volume (5%) water change regime outlined in detail on your site?  because I've noticed that my fish seems to react positively to a water change, I was considering going with this 'system'.  Would you vacuum the substrate every water change?  (this is not covered in the article).  Will this be stressful to the fish?
q
<I agree wholeheartedly with the sentiment of twice weekly, lower percentage water changes. I utilize a 3-4 gallon water change, twice a week in my 40 gallon aquarium. Usually, I don't disturb the sand bed unless there's a need. Instead, I use a small powerhead for water change purposes. My storage container sits next to my aquarium, with the pump laying in the bottom for circulation. I attach aquarium tubing to the pump, then place the pump in my display. Using the hose and flow from the pump, I start by blasting my rockwork clean and getting the gunk into the water column. Next, I direct the water out of the tank into a bucket for disposal. Then I simply toss the pump back into the storage container, and return the water to the tank. I see no reason that this would be stressful to the fish. Hope this helps you out! -JustinN>

Skimming too much  10/26/06
Hey all.
<Jas>
I have an Aqua-C Remora Pro hang-on skimmer.  I have been using it for a few months now and have seen some good results.  But lately it has been skimming too much and just filling up with water.
<Needs adjusting>
I have the o-ring as low as it can go on the collection cup and after about 8 hours, it is full of fairly clear water.  Sure, there is a little green to the water, but not the coffee-black stuff we like to see.
<Need to raise the collection cup up... leave a gap for the bubbles to coalesce... pop upward...>
I can hardly get the water to stink.  I miss that, sort of.
I am using the mag drive that came with the skimmer.  The folks at Aqua-C say I must have got some kind of soapy/oily substance in the water.  I suggested maybe it was the petroleum jelly that I put around the o-ring as the directions advised.
<... What? No to using such solvents on O-rings... No petroleum products period. Silicone lube solamente por favor. Petrolatum will dissolve the material>
  Maybe that got into the water.  But anyway, this has been going on for about a month now and I'm getting tired of paying big bucks to get the "good stuff" that should be trouble and maintenance free.
Only to have more problems.  I know, wah-wah.
I have a 120 with a fuge and 200 lbs live rock.  Several corals and three clams.  Everything looks great, but for how long who knows.  With that o-ring being the only point of adjustment, I don't know what else to do.
<I'd give Jason Kim at Aqua-C (another) ringy dingy or email... he can/will explain the simple adjustment here>
Can you offer any suggestions please and thank you.
Jason
<Bob Fenner>

Skimmer Choice ... Aqua-C, Euro-Reef  10/7/06
First I'd like to thank all of you for putting up with all of us and our repetitious questions.
<Heeeee!>
Now for yet another skimmer dilemma.  I've narrowed down my choices, as have many others, to an  Aqua-c 120 or 180, and a Euro-Reef RS100.
<Good units/manufacturers>
It seems to me as I read through your responses to similar questions that you prefer the Euro-Reef while stating that the Aqua is also a fine choice.  
<Mmm, could proffer a more discrete recommendation. Really depends on the sort of system... livestock choices, arrangement, choices of other gear...>
Could you be more specific.  Why is the Euro-Reef preferred over the Aqua-C?
<The livestock make-up mostly... more crowded, "reef" I'd go with the Euro-Reef product by a small margin... For the vast majority of hobby systems, the Aqua-C is preferable...>
Does it produce a more concentrated skimmate ?
<Either can out-compete the other depending on adjustment...>
Is it easier to adjust?
<Mmm, no. Both about the same>
Is the NW simply a better way of making tiny bubbles?  Is it simply a more reliable and consistent performer?
<Both have their promoters/detractors... do require the same lack of actual attention once set-up...>
I have read through countless forums in an effort to sort this out and  have ascertained only that skimmer choice is a leap of faith.
<Heeee! This is often the case in pet-fish matters>
No one is doing any comprehensive product testing.
<These are about, though generally not at all, let alone well-indexed... Most pulp 'zines in our interest don't make their way into citation services... mostly a lack of bibliographies... An issue I've gone over and over with publishers, editors... But Bob Goeman's among others has tested, reported on skimmer "choosing">
That said, I hope you can provide some solid reasons for choosing one over the other.
P.S. I'd also consider an H&S if their distribution network was better.
Thanks.
<Again... there are (IMO, not a matter of any scientific data, testing), no great discernible functional differences twixt these lines... Both do work well in doing what they're intended to do. Bob Fenner, who will further gladly admit that the makers/owners of both companies are indeed also friends>

Refugiums/Selection 10/4/06
Hello crew,
<Hello Mike>
I have read though the questions on the hang on tank refugiums and did not find my answer. In the future I will be converting a 125 gallon fresh water over to FOWLR. I only have room for hang on tank refugiums. I was thinking about 2 of them on the back of the tank spaced out evenly. It will not be a heavy bio-load, maybe 10-15 small peaceful fish. My question is, are the protein skimmers that come along with some of the refugiums are of the quality to handle this or should I purchase them separately?
<The CPR's incorporate their Bak Pak skimmer in their hang on refugiums.  A decent skimmer, but I would rather go with skimmerless refugiums and an efficient hang-on skimmer.  Seems to me like you are helping to defeat the purpose of a refugium by having a skimmer incorporated into it.  Much better to surface skim water to the skimmer.>
I have a Remora on my 46 gallon now it works great (thanks guys & gals ) on that one. Any input or suggestions will be greatly appreciated and put to good use. Thank you in advance and for all the help in the past, Mike, your fishin buddy.
<You're welcome Mike.  James (Salty Dog)>

Re:  Refugiums/Selection  10/5/06
Thank you for the lighting quick response Salty Dog. The way you explained it makes perfect sense. I will purchase a separate skimmer as suggested.
Thanks again,
<You're welcome, Mike.  James (Salty Dog)>
Mike.

<Aqua-C> Skimmer rave and Angel Question  - 09/14/06
Hi Crew:
I just wanted to take a minute to thank you for recommending the Aqua-C Remora.  I replaced my Prizm with one and had some trouble getting it to work. I emailed Aqua-C and the quickly responded to me that my fake decor could be the problem. They recommended I remove it and rinse it all 3-4 times for an hour at a time.  Needless to say my skimmer is working like a charm now.  They mentioned that fake coral is notorious for causing issues with the skimmer due to the oils that leech into the water.
<Yes... a problem that a couple of friends in the manufacture of this are earnestly endeavoring to fix>
For anyone that is considering purchasing an Aqua-C please do! They have amazing service and the difference is unbelievable in the skimmate that they collect.  Now for my question, sorry to go on for so long. My local fish store is very good and separates all of the Angel fish that they have.
<A wise move>
I noticed that the only exception to this is that they always keep Flame Angels and Lemon Peel Angels in the same tank.  I questioned them and they said that they are the only ones that are compatible together.  Have you ever tried this mix? Would you recommend it?
Thanks for everything,
<Mmmm, by and large, no... have seen this and other combinations of Centropyge together... with and w/o success/compatibility. I would not give carte blanche to this combo. Bob Fenner>

Aqua C adjustment?  9/10/06
Hello Crew:
<Hey, Mike G with you tonight.>
Thursday I replaced my Prizm skimmer with an Aqua C Remora after the excellent things I have read.  
<A good decision, indeed.>
It has the prefilter and a Maxi Jet 1200.  It has been hooked up for 2 days now and is still very loud and has not produced anything at all. Would you say that this is normal.
<If the Prizm was producing the same amount (none), then, perhaps, your water may be "too" clean for even this more efficient skimmer to find anything to remove. I doubt this, however. Is it possible that the skimmer was not installed/assembled correctly?>
From what I have read I had visions of cups full of nasty skimmate the morning after installation. The tank is a 55 with 2 Clowns a Sixline Wrasse, a Royal Gramma and a Neon Goby so I'm sure that it has plenty to skim ( Not that the Prizm did anything).
<Hmm. Again, perhaps there really is nothing to skim. Check your remora to make sure that it is assembled properly.>
Should I be concerned that something is wrong or give it a couple more days.
Thanks for the advice,
<Good luck, Mike G>
Craig

Is it worth it? Upgrades to a FOWLR/Reef... Skimmer and circ. concerns  8/28/06
Hello again WWM crew!
<Mohammad>
    I'm currently planning to upgrade my new FOWLR into a reef aquarium.
Currently, my circulation and the Protein Skimmer are not suitable for a reef setup.
    My preferred place for a Protein Skimmer is in a sump.
<Mine too>
I currently don't have a sump for my 100 gallon tank. I have very limited space for a sump, around 12.5x14" footprint, and about 22" height. I thought maybe I can use an AquaC Urchin Pro for it's slim profile, but after thorough reading in the net and WWM a small sump won't be easy to make (That is, for a 100 gallon).
   Would it be a better idea to use an AquaC Remora Pro H.O.T. instead?
<If the space limitation is as you say, yes>
Or do you think that making a small sump with the Urchin (I personally don't think that I can even squeeze 5 gallons in there...) is a better idea?
<Mmm, too little "room to spare" IMO>
    My second question concerns the circulation. I came to understand that corals in a reef tank prefer random turbulent flow.
<Most species, communities, yes>
I plan to buy two Tunze Turbelle Streams (6060) to place on opposite directions of the tank. Since Tunze Streams are very powerful, I believe they should only be placed on the top of the tank. Will this cause dead spots to form in the bottom of the tank? Or is it not a problem?
<Not likely on both counts, due to the force and volume of flow>
I appreciate your help. Enjoy.
Mohammad
<And you, Bob Fenner>

AquaC Skimmer Selection/Stand Modification - 08/05/06
WWM Crew,
<<Scott>>
I am going to be setting up a 180 gallon acrylic reef system with LPS corals in the near future.
<<Neat!>>
I currently have an All-Glass stand (24" tall), but don't have the tank yet.  I have recently been told that since I am setting up an acrylic system (this will be my first), that acrylic tanks need support for the entire tank and I will need to attach a sheet of plywood to the top of the stand (no problem).  Is this true?
<<That is correct, and keep in mind this is all that will be supporting the tank in the center of the stand...I suggest a "minimum" thickness of 3/4".  And since I like my tanks a bit higher than "standard" tank stand height anyway, I would even consider two layers of plywood>>
Now for the skimmer, I recently read your skimmer articles
(thanks...they were extremely helpful) and it appears as though you have nothing but good things to say about the AquaC line of skimmers and that their customer service is 2nd to none.
<<Indeed, have spoken with the owner/President (Jason Kim) on occasion...an extremely nice/helpful fella.  There are other great skimmer brands out there (Euro-Reef is my current fave), but I think you'll be quite happy with AquaC>>
The EV 180 is rated to 200 gallons and the EV 240 is rated to 350 gallons (of course you already know this).  Since my stand is 24" tall and the 240 is 26" tall, would the 180 run the tank efficiently or would I be better off somehow modifying the stand (any suggestions) to accompany the 240 (not sure how much additional space I would need to remove the collection cup).
<<Well Scott, as I recall, Jason's design allows you to remove the skimmer cup with as little as 1/4" clearance, but that still won't allow you to put the 240 in your current stand.  If I were to have a look at your stand/had a detailed description I could recommend a way to increase the height (if possible), but otherwise I'm reluctant to make suggestions.  As for the EV-180 servicing your system, yes, I think it would unless you plan to stock very heavily in which case a larger/different brand that fits the stand might serve better>>
Thanking you in advance for your feedback and keep up the great work.  This is a great forum.
<<Thank you for the kind words…for writing so well>>
Scott  
<<Regards, EricR>>

Recirculating EV-180?   7/26/06
Hi Crew,
<Tom>
I have an EV-180 and am a fan of Aqua-C's quality, design & low maintenance but have been kicking around an idea, for a modification to make more foam/smaller bubbles, that I'd like to get your thoughts on.
I'd like to try putting a closed-loop pump on the skimmer that would draw water from low inside the EV-180 body, add air, chop it up with a pinwheel impeller, then return the micro-bubble mix back into the EV-180 body, right below and close to the foam tower.  Clearly not an original idea, it's the same concept as the Euro-reef RC line of skimmers.
Can you comment on whether you think this idea would work, and if yes then how best to try it out? If it doesn't work I can always plug the holes in the EV-180 body and be back to where I started.
Thanks,
Tom
<Mmm... likely will not work... You might contact Jason Kim, owner/operator of AquaC re this idea... but his method of jetting/aspirating water to produce bubbles will be negated by introducing more air into the water here. Perhaps worth experimenting, but I doubt if efficiency will be improved, and there may be many tiny bubble issues. Bob Fenner>

Skimmer choices amongst Aqua-C products  7/23/06
After lots of reading here, I've decided to upgrade my anemic, frequently-adjusted, and now leaking Prizm skimmer to the highly recommended Aqua-C remora.
<You will be delighted with this choice>
My system is a one year old 36 gallon bowfront with polyps and soft corals, a few clean up hermits and snails, one coral banded shrimp, Falco hawk, pajama cardinal, cherub angel, 3 inch DSB, about 50 pounds live rock.  I have a hang-on AquaClear 50 filter for mechanical/media, and 2 AquaClear 50 powerheads in the top back corners pointed at the front middle of the tank.  I'm considering a pair of percula clowns, but that's going to be it.  Is the Remora sufficient, or would it be worth spending the extra money for the capacity of the Remora Pro?  
<I would go with the former, unless you have clear intentions of up-sizing your system, getting a larger tank>
I worry about too much flow in this size tank, as those powerheads already seem to push around a lot of water.  The fish look like they're on a rollercoaster near the front of the tank.
<Heee! And likely enjoying it>
I would love any other suggestions you might have about how to arrange flow, as the returns from the hang-on filter and skimmer and the powerheads are limiting for the placement of the corals, and I'm space-limited so I cannot set up sump...
Thanks...
Tim
<Best to direct such flows toward one corner to the central lower face of a panel at a right angle... Please read here: http://wetwebmedia.com/circmarart.htm
and the linked files above. Bob Fenner>

Skimmer Question  5/31/06
Greetings Bob & Crew!
<James today.>
Got a question that I need a speedy reply to.
I am going to upgrade my skimmer on my reef system (125 DT with 40 sump/fuge).  Currently running an Urchin pro but loosing the war on hair  algae.
Will be adding a Ca reactor soon so I want a skimmer that I can run  the effluent to (EV series). <A good idea, the skimmer will reduce excess CO2 from the reactor.>
I was debating between the EV-180 and the EV-240 when a deal was  offered to me for a EV-400 with pump at about the same cost as the EV-240 with  pump.  
The question is:  would the EV-400 be a little overkill for my  system?
<If you were planning to buy the EV-240 anyway, then I'd go with the EV-400 if the cost is the same.>
If so, should I get the EV-180 or the EV-240, keeping in mind  that money is a little tight.  I know you can't over skim, but I am not  looking for overkill either.  I just want something that can handle my  bioload (which will be growing after Ca reactor addition.....getting stony  corals) without a problem.
<In this case, the EV-180 should work well for you as it is rated for up to a 200 gallon tank.>
Thanks!!
<You're welcome.  James (Salty Dog)>
-Ray

Aqua C and ozone  5/29/06
Good day,
<Mark>
First, I would like to thank all of you for your wonderful support you give to people like me. Your answers have helped me out tremendously. I will try to keep this simple (I hope). I have a 75 gallon reef with a tidepool 2 sump, a refugium, Eheim pro and both the rainbow mechanical and chemical filter. I had added the Aqua C remora pro per the countless recommendations from other hobbyists. I would like to add an ozonizer to my system, however upon e-mailing Jason and his group the protein skimmer is not set-up for ozone systems. Do you know a way to "rig this" safely? I really do not want to give this skimmer up. Thanks, and sorry this was long.
Mark
<http://www.google.com/custom?q=Aqua+C+and+ozone&sitesearch=wetwebmedia.com
The above from putting your subject/title in Google... Bob Fenner>

Aqua-C Remora Pro Skimmer Modification? - 05/11/06
Good afternoon,
<<Hello>>
I have been using a fantastic hang-on skimmer over the past 8 months.
<<The Aqua-C Remora mentioned in the title line...I agree>>
I'm getting close to two full cups a week of nasty scum.  I've recently converted my tank to a sump system and attempted to convert my skimmer to accommodate.
<<I see>>
The skimmer comes with about 2" of hosing which connects the Mag3 pump to the intake piping.  It wouldn't be safe for me to fill my sump that full of water in order to use just that 2" hosing because if my sump pump failed, my tank would be overflowed.
<<Indeed>>
So, I matched the hosing and added about 12" of hosing and have the Mag3 pump sitting in the same chamber as the sump pump.
<<Mmm...think I know where this is headed>>
In theory, I figured this would work... but it seems as though my bubbly froth does not quite reach the chamber of my overflow container.
<<The pump is working against too much head pressure for its size>>
I'm assuming it's because the pump needs to shoot the water at an appropriate velocity up the 12" instead of the 2"???
<<More like an appropriate "volume", but you're on the right tract>>
Was curious if anyone else has attempted to convert an Aqua-C Remora Pro skimmer for sump use?
<<I'm sure someone has>>
Am I doing something wrong?
<<As you've guessed...not using a large enough pump>>
Do I need to get a more powerful pump to handle the extra 10" of hosing?
<<I would...a Mag5 "might" do the job, but I would be inclined to go with a MAG7...and install a gate-valve between it and the skimmer for adjustment of flow as/if needed>>
Regards,
Dave Brynlund
<<Cheers, Eric Russell>>

Upgrade Skimmer?  - 04/19/06
Hi Crew,
<Hello there Tom.>
Looking for your opinion on a line of products you often recommend, the
Aqua-C skimmers.
<One of the “good-ones”.>
I currently have an EV-180 on a 125G mixed reef with a "medium" bioload, around 2 years old, and it's working fairly well.
<Great.>
The tank is healthy, and nuisance algae is pretty much under control.
<Great.>
  I like the quality of construction and ease of maintenance of the EV series. Based on your experience, would we see a big enough improvement in waste removal by upgrading to an EV-240 to warrant the purchase of the larger skimmer (and new pump)?  Would we be able to carry a substantially larger bioload? Can you give me an understanding of benefits we would really gain?
<If this was a first time purchase I would say get the 240, but since you already have the 180 I would stick with that, seems to be working smoothly for you. As far as water quality control…why not add a refugium? – That is if you don’t already have one.>
Thanks,
<Anytime.>
Tom
<Adam J.>

New skimmer gone crazy?    4/14/06
<Hello Josef - Tim answering your question today!>
I am setting up my new 75 reef ready tank, and ordered an AquaC EV-120.  It arrived broken (thanks UPS...) and after a month and a half, I finally have a new, working skimmer.  The whole time I was waiting, the tank had been set up and was running fine.  It had 15lbs of semi-cured Tonga deepwater rock and a 2-3 inch bed of sugar size sand.  I did not wash the sand, I should note.
After just a day, the skimmer started skimming like crazy.  However, it was skimming out fairly clear water. <This is typical for new skimmers - it has to do with the chemicals used in the production process. You should find that this will stop within the first 2-3 days of operating the skimmer. If not, give the skimmer a good rinse with warm soapy water and ensure that you subsequently wash away all the soap - then give it another day or two to settle down.> The water in the tank is a bit cloudy from the silt that has settled out and occasionally gets kicked back into the water column by my Maxi Jet powerheads and the return from the sump. <This will not be helping your skimmer - the 'cloudiness' will prevent foam from forming properly and thereby lead to your thin skimmate.> I turned the skimmer back as far as I could, but still it's producing a gallon of slightly cloudy but otherwise normal water every 10-15 minutes.  I am baffled by this, so I'm wondering what your thoughts are.
Is the sand terribly dirty with organics, and that is why the skimmer is going insane? <I do not think that an overload of organics is the problem as this should still result in thick smelly foam, not the watery substance that you are obtaining.> Even if this is the case, would it be so dirty that the skimmer goes crazy no matter how far back I try to turn it?  I know the skimmer's not defective; it's doing a dang good job.  Too good of a job as I am observing.
I will be adding 65 pounds of uncured branch rock soon and need to remedy my situation before the rock comes.  What actions would you support me taking? <Stir the cloudiness up a bit and then do a partial water change to start removing some of these particles from the system. Also, if your skimmer does not settle down, give it a good clean as suggested above.> Should I try a massive water change, assuming it's the dirty sand that's causing my overactive skimmer? <Not massive but considerable - maybe 25% I would recommend> Should I try running Poly Filter or carbon to try and get the water a little clearer and maybe pull some of the stuff from it? <I do not think that would be necessary. Though carbon may help remove some of the cloudiness that is to fine for your filter pads.> Or should I just run the drain line into a bucket a couple hours a day and just keep adding newly made saltwater until the skimmer stops freaking out? <I would actually allow the water to run back into the aquarium for a day or two - true, you will not be removing any DOCs from the system, but that should not be a problem in the short run. Then keep an eye on the skimmer and once it settles down, start collecting and removing the skimmate from the system. That will save you the hassle and costs of unnecessarily replacing water in the aquarium.> Or should I just add the new live rock and see if the rock can help filter out whatever's gotten into the water? <Well, given that the rock is uncured, I would wait until the skimmer is working. Adding uncured rock to your established rock could cause ammonia and nitrite spikes as the rock cures/cycles that can be very detrimental to the life on your established rocks - the effects of which would be reduced if your skimmer was pulling out DOCs.> It's just really perplexing to me the way the skimmer is acting.  I mean, for it to be skimming clear water tells me I must have a pretty bad nutrient problem in there right now or something.  But maybe that's not it and you have a better idea.  I don't know, I'm just perplexed right now! <Just hang in there - the problem may very well just be the result of your skimmer being new. If things don't improve, follow the above suggestions and I am sure you will have your skimmer functioning properly in no time - allowing you to then focus on the more enjoyable aspects of reefkeeping!>
Thank you for your help.  Your site never fails to help when I have a problem! <Hopefully this will not be the exception to the rule! Best of Luck!>
Joe Schneider

Continuing skimmer woes...   4/18/06
I wrote a few days ago about my skimmer foaming like crazy and producing almost clear skimmate.  Unfortunately, I have to write again.
It was recommended that I do a partial water change to remove some of the silt that was in the water column.  I changed 20 gallons of water out (approx. 90 gal total in the system), emptied the sump, and cleaned all of the silt out, as this is where most had settled out.  Finally, I gave the skimmer a good bath in warm water and thoroughly rinsed it out.
<Better to use a light vinegar/acetic acid wash and bottle brushing, freshwater rinsing...>
For two days, all was well, but today it started skimming like crazy again.  The water has never been clearer, and the skimmate is virtually crystal clear.
<... Your skimmer is mis-adjusted... too much bubbling and/or high flow, and/or too high in the contact column...>
I can't imagine it's a silt problem anymore, given the tank is just as clear as my RO/DI water that I mix with.  So once again I'm baffled at what would be causing my skimmer to foam like crazy.
<Presence of phobic molecules in the water... fatty foods?>
So, back to all of you for some advice.  What else might be causing an EV-120 to go crazy in tank without any life it it?
<Adjustment and the polar molecules...>
And what would you recommend as a next course of action to take?  Short of tearing the whole tank apart, I can't imagine what else I can do here...  The water is great (all tests show zero or are at normal levels) and the system is just screaming for the box of branch rock I'm waiting to order.
<I'd order and place it/this...>
All that's left to do is figure out why the skimmer is acting up.  As soon as I can get the skimmer under control the tank is ready to start the cycle.
Loving skimmers but hating them sometimes :-)
Joe Schneider
<... Please read here: http://www.wetwebmedia.com/bestskmopfaqs.htm
and the linked files above... or maybe just the ones on Aqua-C's line... contact Jason Kim there... Bob Fenner>

Protein Skimming/Operation    4/6/06
Hey guys - I recently installed a sump on my 55 gallon, and moved my AquaC Remora to the sump.  The sump is simply an 18 gallon Rubbermaid container.  My problem is the protein skimmer is no longer producing foam.  I tried forming a "skimmer compartment" by placing the skimmer intake into another perforated (6 small holes) container inside the sump.  This eliminates the current in the sump, but the skimmer is still not producing foam. The only other modification I made was lengthening the tube that connects the powerhead to the intake of the skimmer to about 3" so it can reach the water level in the sump (still skims off top of water level).  This hasn't cut down on the power of the pump as far as I can tell, so I don't think that would be the culprit.  Any idea why my skimmer is behaving this way? should I move it back to the main tank?  <Chris, this reaction is due to the newness of the Rubbermaid container, needs to age a bit.  This should pass in a week or two.>
Thanks  <You're welcome.  James (Salty Dog)>

Skimmers Coralife vs. AquaC 3/20/06
Bob, in reading through the FAQ info on skimmers here, (lots of great info, thanks for keeping this up!!   I'm a bit overwhelmed though, and have not seen a lot of info on the AquaC EV line..... I have a question (or maybe 2) I'm setting up a 120gal reef tank. (replacing my current 55 gal). I'm looking at an AquaC EV-180 or a Coralife Needle Wheel ( up to 220gal size) the EV-180 is 340$ and the Coralife is 190$. Can you tell me if the EV-80 is that much better of a skimmer,? I'd like to not have to tweak and adjust it daily... cleaning the cup and riser tube daily is no problem. Thanks, Mike
<<I don't have first hand experience with the Coralife skimmers, but from comments that I have heard, they seem to work OK.  Based on similar sized needle wheel skimmers, I would guess that these two skimmers are roughly equal in performance.  That said, I would expect a much higher degree of quality from Aqua-C (Heavy duty acrylic vs. cheap injection molded parts).  I don't know what kind of customer support Coralife provides, but I know that Aqua-C's is second to none.  Another good option to explore is the All-Seas G series.  They are essentially "Euro-reef clones" at a much lower price.  Best Regards.  AdamC.>

Skimmers Coralife vs. Aqua-C part2 3/20/06
Thanks for the reply!! Looking at the all-seas, they are also made from extruded and injection molded parts, I'm assuming then that the Aqua-C is probably a better unit... Do you have any comments on how much ongoing tweaking and adjusting there may be between the Aqua-C and the All-Seas? (I'm also assuming that the EV-180 is a better skimmer than the Aqua-C Urchin Pro?
<<Indeed, the all seas are made from injection molded parts, but they are fairly robust.  They are still no match for Aqua-C's build quality.  All-Seas, like Euro-Reef are among the ultimate in plug and play, set it and forget it skimmers.... they are almost idiot proof.  I would expect the Aqua-C and Coralife to require a bit of occasional tweaking.  I would definitely choose the EV-180 over the urchin.  Best Regards. AdamC.>>

Skimmers Coralife vs. Aqua-C part 3 3/24/06
Went to order the AquaC local, when I called back, they had misquoted me and the pump was not included in the price. I'm ordering a All-Seas G3. most likely will not fit in my current sump, but I'm making a new one anyway for the 120. Thanks again, Mike
<<I think you will be very pleased with the performance and value of the G3.  Best Regards.  AdamC.>>

Skimmers Coralife vs. AquaC part 4 3/30/06
I lied... Actually looking at a EV-180 on eBay. I emailed AquaC's tech support and they are sending me a couple pieces for my urchin.. At no charge.. VERY IMPRESSED with that kind of service.. Also, everything I read says nothing but good about their support and quality. I'm not one to sell something in a year and buy a different one.. I want to do it right the first time... So, all that to say, I'm still looking and reading all I can about them on your site and other links as well.  Thanks again, Mike
<<There is no question that AquaC is the industry leader in build quality and customer service, however I would give the dollar for dollar performance edge to the ASM's.  Good luck either way!  AdamC.>

Re: Aqua C EV 180 protein skimmer & stocking opinion differences   1/19/06
Hi Bob,
             I contacted the customer service agent at Aqua -c and he said that they changed the manual and now recommend running the water level at
the dark gray box level or sometimes higher for the New EV model series.
<Thank you for this info.>
Quick question, I discovered the marine fish supplier Marine center, (which comes highly regarded from many people I know including some
people from your site) states that fish such as the clown trigger at full size can be kept in a 30 gallon aquarium by its self, honey comb morays in
55 gallons, and other large fish is much smaller tanks than I have herd anywhere else.
<Yes... we do have differences of opinion here>
Maybe this is plausible but would impact my design on how I could stock my tank in the future.  What do you think?
<These species need/deserve more space>
  I also visited my local fish store and talked to the manager, highly regarded as wise fish
geniuses and has been in the hobby for many years, I discussed with him my tank size(110) and future tank mates and he said I could keep a porc puffer
Diodon holocanthus, clown trigger, Bluelined grouper, zebra moray and several other rather large fish in this tank indefinitely except for maybe
the porcupine What are your thoughts about this?
<I disagree... the likelihood of real trouble... fighting, anomalous loss, maintenance headaches is too large to suit me>
           Thank you for your valuable time and consideration,
                  Chris
<And you for yours. Bob Fenner>

Protein Skimmer Choices  - 01/12/2006
Hello,
<Hi there>
     I am currently running a 72gal FOWLR tank with aspirations to jump into reef-keeping within the same system. I have a 30gal sump with 30 lbs of live
rock for biological filtration. I use a micro-fiber sock with activated carbon for mechanical and chemical filtration for the time being.
<Sounds good>
I also have a, what I view as a complete waste of space, Seaclone 100 protein skimmer.
<Not of much use... better as a mechanical aerator than skimmer.>
I am going about buying a new skimmer now and I would greatly appreciate your input. I am stuck on trying to decide between the last 3
products I have read up on because they've all come back with good reviews. In your preference, which would you see fit: Aqua-C Urchin, Coralife Super
skimmer (needle wheel), or Aquamedic Turboflotor T1000?
<The Aqua-C hands down>
Or do you know of any other 'ready-to-go' skimmers within that $200 price range? Thank you so
much for your input! Your website has been a godsend throughout my endeavors in aquarium keeping.
                  Thanks again!
                     Justin
<Gladly to share, Bob Fenner>

Aqua-C Vs. Coralife  12/24/05
Hello, I am setting up a 55Gal FOWLR tank with the intentions of  
adding some corals and inverts over time. I am trying to decided on a  
protein skimmer I thought I was set on an AquaC Remora, but someone  
said I should get the Remora Pro instead. Do you think the Pro would  
be that much better? Im kinda on a budget here and the Remora is  
rated for 75Gal, I would think that would be sufficient. I am also  
looking at the new Coralife Super Skimmer, which has gotten good  
reviews, but still leaning toward the Remora. which would you  
suggest? Remora, Remora Pro, Coralife?
<Coralife has gotten some favorable reviews on their new skimmers but the Aqua-C brand is tried and true, and in this case that is my choice. As far as the remora vs. the remora pro, while I am a fan of LARGE skimmers on tanks, the standard remora will do just fine on a 55 gallon tank, assuming you go with responsible stocking levels. One more note: When choosing the remora, choose the model with a 1200 Maxi-jet pump and not a Rio pump. Adam Jackson.>

Aqua C EV-90  12/7/05
Hello crew, 
<Hello Mark>
I have just a quick question. I have a 30 gal. tank, 20 gal. sump, and a 10 gal. refugium. Would an Aqua C EV-90 w/mag5 pump, that is 5 years old and looks to be in good condition work well with my setup and would it be worth
$100? 
<All of the Aqua C EV series are very good skimmers. The EV90 has been replaced by a more compact EV120, but to answer your question, yes, the EV90 would be a great skimmer for your tank. If the pump and skimmer are in good working order I'd think 100 bucks would be a fair price.>
Thanks 
<You're welcome, James (Salty Dog)> 

Conversion to Reef and Skimmer Selection 12/1/2005
Hi,
<Hello Rob.>
I have a 55 gal FOWLR tank that I would like to turn into a reef setup.
<Welcome to the addiction.>
I currently have a ViaAqua canister filter and Prizm skimmer. I intend to remove the canister filter and add a refugium
<Great move.>
and new skimmer (probably modify a 20 gal tank to contain a protein skimmer and the refugium) and rely on the skimmer, refugium and LR for filtration. The tank is not drilled, so I would have to use an over flow. I've read mixed reviews on your site. Have you had any experience with the CPR or Marineland SOS overflows?
<Generally not a fan of any hang on overflows but I know people who have had success with those manufactured by CPR and All Glass Aquariums.>
Also, I was hoping you might be able to recommend a better skimmer than what I have now. I have been considering the Turboflotor 1000 or Aqua-C Urchin. Would these be good options? They seem to get a lot of good review on your site. Most of the stores in my area seem to carry the Coralife Superskimmer, CPR Bak-Pak and Pro-Clear Aquatics skimmers. Do these work well?
<The Aqua-C Urchin will easily out perform the others you have listed.>
I appreciate any help you can provide.
<Hope this is what you were looking for.>
Thanks,
Rob
<Welcome, Adam J.> 

Re: Reef Conversion and Skimmer Selection  12/03/05
Thanks for the response.
<Quite welcome.>
One quick follow-up question. For the size setup I propose, would you recommend the stander Aqua-C Urchin or the Urchin Pro?
<If you have the resources I always say the bigger the better, I don't "believe" in over-skimming.>
Would the Pro skim too much?
<See above.>
Thanks, Rob
<Welcome, Adam J.> 

Urchin Pro skimmer  11/20/05
Hi,
<Hello>
Thanks for all the help I got so far!  I have a good chance to get an Urchin Pro skimmer - used and for cheap.  I'm setting up a 125 gallons aquarium with 20 gal sump. FOWLR for now, planning to add corals later in my live. I'm wondering if Urchin Pro will do the job. Rating says 75 gal +.
Thanks again!
Inna
<Should be a fine addition. Bob Fenner> 

Cleaned Skimmer Not Working - 10/30/05
Hello... great site!
<<Thanks>>
I have looked for an answer to my question but haven't come across it.
<<OK>>
4 days ago I combined a 70 gal. reef and a 50 gal. reef in a new 130 gal. tank. I probably used 60% old water and 40% new. I have an AquaC-150 that has worked well in the past. I gave it a thorough cleaning with vinegar as it was very dirty and calcified. It skimmed the first night for a couple hours and has done nothing since. I believe the water level is where it should be.
<<Hmm...are you sure? After such a thorough cleaning you may need to raise the water height a bit for a while.>>
There is no obstruction in the nozzle. The sump water level is consistent and the water comes directly from the overflow to the pump but the foam does not build up in the tower.
<<Raise the water height until it does.>>
I am wondering if my cleaning has screwed it up or if the tank move and all the new water have resulted in nothing to skim?
<<Always something to skim. As you surmise, the cleaning has changed some properties in the skimmer...but no worries...make adjustments to get it working properly and keep an eye on it to make more adjustments as necessary as it "ages" again.>>
Like I said, it has been 4 days now and I am confused, especially since I thought there should be some die-off with a move and a small cycle (which is why I would really like the skimmer working). Any insight and recommendation would be appreciated.
<<Adjust and monitor...>>
Troy
<<Regards, EricR>>

Re: Cleaned Skimmer Not Working - 10/31/05
Hi, and thanks for your prompt response.
<<Welcome>>
I thought it must be the skimmer as you suggested so I moved my Remora Pro from the other tank I have running onto this new tank since I am concerned about the small cycle I may go through. This old skimmer was working fine on the old tank and now has the same problem in the new tank... no foam buildup. This makes me think it is something with the water in the new system preventing foam buildup. I have tested for all the usual and everything seems fine. Perhaps more telling is the fact that every living thing in the system seems fine, including 4 Crocea clams. Do you have any ideas?
<<Hmm...most any system will produce skimmate with a good skimmer (like the AquaC you have), it is rare that a system would be so devoid of waste products/decomposition as to not produce anything...but that doesn't mean it can't be so.>>
By the way, I used RO water and no chemicals other than salt. I am not really panicking since everything seems fine but I sure am puzzled why the skimmer would not even foam for a few minutes in 5 days. Any more insights are greatly appreciated.
<<Trust your instincts for now, keep the skimmer running and keep an eye on the system. I'd be interested to hear how things progress.>>
Thanks,
Troy
<<Regards, EricR>>

Re: Cleaned Skimmer Not Working (Update) - 11/02/05
Hi Eric (my father's name by the way),
<<Hello Troy>>
That's why I like you guys... because you're very knowledgeable.
<<I like the sound of this. <G> >>
The Remora started skimming after 24 hours of "settling in" and so it appears your first assumption, that the cleaning I gave the EV150, was indeed the problem.
<<Heee!...I love it when I get one right!>>
Incidentally, it is still not skimming after 1 week. I emailed AquaC (great service) and it seems the skimmer is functioning properly so it just may take some more time I guess.
<<Hmm...possibly...>>
At least I have another skimmer now working on the system in the meantime. Anyways, I just wanted to give you kudos for helping out and being right in the first place.
Troy
<<The pleasure is mine. EricR>>

Diatom Delight - 10/28/2005
Hi,
<Hello>
I've got an algae problem that is slowly taken over the substrate in my tank.
<That's always fun.> 
It is brown in color and looks like there is thin pieces of hair attached to it. I'm assuming "hair algae" :)
<Sounds like a diatom problem.>
I've checked my water and all is good. Amm0, Nitr0, Nitri0. I use RO water, do 5 gallon water changes a week(55g tank) My lights have been on up to 12 hours a day..........I'm thinking that is probably my problem.
<I doubt it.> 
So I'm cutting that way back to 6 hrs.
<I wouldn't. Anything else I can do in the meantime?
<You haven't mentioned a skimmer. If you don't have one that is likely your problem here. Here are some links to get you started.
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/brownalgcontfaqs.htm 
http://www.wetwebmedia.com/brownalgcontfaq2.htm  >
Thanks
<Sure. - Josh> 

Re: Diatom Delight - 10/28/2005
I do have a skimmer (Prizm).
<Ah-Hah!> 
It works pretty good.
<Not from my experience.> 
So you think the 12hrs of lights are ok.....?
<Yes.> 
From all the FAQs on diatoms I've read I've come up with the following conclusions... this is expected of a new tank (mine is 6 months old), monitor feeding amounts, weekly water changes, aggressive skimming...
<This is likely your problem.>
Do you have anything else to add?
<I'd look for a much more capable skimmer.>
Thank you again
<You're welcome. - Josh> 

Re: Diatom Delight 10/29/05
Thanks for that speedy reply!
<I must've sprained something on that last one. It's taken me four hours for this one!>
Ok, now I'll put you on the spot and ask which skimmers do you recommend?
<I don't really feel on the spot, but you should know we only speak from experience here (we don't endorse products). I was duped into a Prizm once also and decided to research my next choice. I've been quite happy with the AquaC line since then. Check out some forums for others input here. - Josh> 

Re; Diatom Delight - 10/28/2005
Hey, no complaints!
<Glad to hear!> 
An answer in the same day is good enough for me.
<Whew!> 
I've pretty much decided on turning in the Prizm for a Aqua C.
<You won't regret it. Good luck on turning in the Prism though (you may be able to pay someone to take it).>
Thanks again.....I'm sure I'll be back :)
<You're welcome...we're not going anywhere. - Josh> 

AquaC Remora Micro Bubbles with Bubble trap - 10/17/2005
Hello and thank you for your support and help. I appreciate this wonderful site.
<Hi there, and glad you enjoy it!>
My question is how I can reduce the micro bubbles in my tank that are coming out of my AquaC Remora as I am using a bubble trap but bubbles are STILL going through the foam in the trap and back into the tank? Is there a "break in" Period?
<Yes. I believe they say to expect this for the first two weeks. About right IME.> 
Also, should I rinse out the Remora as I ran the Remora from the very first moment I filled the tank?
<I would.> 
At that time is was REALLY cloudy from fine aragonite substrate dust and everything was coated with a film. I have cleaned everything EXCEPT the innards of the skimmer.
<Likely the skimmer is quite dirty from the dust. Cleaning this out will help maintain its efficiency.>
The tank is a 75g in its first week of cycling. I am only using Kent Stability chemical to aid the cycling process.
<Well, you've got a good skimmer. This company has excellent customer service as well. Contact them here for more advice on how to optimize its performance (pump upgrades etc.) as I believe this skimmer is rated up to 75g. - Josh>