Do I need a skimmer?

[360º]

i have a 55 gallon tank. fish with liverock and a couple corals

60 pounds of LR and a fluval g6 running carbon

just wondering if ill need a skimmer?

 

[HN1]

Never hurts, but as long as your water changes are adequate it is not an absolute must.

 

[360º]

how much does it reduce the waterchange frequency by?

 

[HN1]

Too many variables to say, but IMO it doesn't reduce the needed frequency. Maybe the needed amount, but like I said there are far too many variables to really say. Think of the skimmer as insurance. If you have something come up and can't get your PWC done on schedule, it buys you some room for error. You'd be amazed at the crud they pull out of the water!

 

[360º]

thanks for the advice. i think im gonna seriously consider one

 

[HN1]

I would / did.

 

[cabezon]

Skimmer takes the poop out and adds oxygen. Water changes are more to replenish minerals and remove nitrates. You could get one built into a hob fuge. Serious filtration for a 55.

 

[Krypt]

I would definitely recommend getting a skimmer. I have one on my 55 and it's always pulling junk out of the water and when your housing inverts, you can never have water that's too clean.