Skimmer just died - a couple of questions

[MsBeanCtr]

Ok, my ka-ka coralife skimmer died and I just ordered a new skimmer. I'm concerned because I'm certain it won't get to me for a week (given the holiday season etc). I ordered a new clam that will arrive on Thursday. Does anyone see a problem with not using a skimmer for a week or so?

Suggestions?

 

[JoshsReef]

If you have kept up on your partial water changes and your water parameters are in good shape I do not see how going with out a skimmer for a week could hurt. You should not have any problems IMO

 

[Kurt_Nelson]

Don't think Roka runs one at all! I'm sure he'll chime in here pretty quick!

I don't think you'd have any issues. Only thing I might do is not overdo feeding any zoo or phyto or things along that line. (Not that I'd overdo it anyway... but you know what I mean!)

 

[melosu58]

You`ll be OK for a week or two Msbeanctr. Just throw in a PWC instead and you are good to go. I run mine 24/7 but I know some folks that only run it one or two weeks a month.

 

[roka64]

Yeah, I don't run a skimmer, but I have not added clams. I do plan on it, but as stated, keep up with the PWCs and you should be good to go.

 

[cmor1701d]

You'll be fine. As stated do an extra PWC to help if necessary.
If you decide to feed the clam, take it out of the tank and feed it in a bowl of tank water. Do not put that water back in the tank. For small clams this is a very good method of feeding them anyway. The water is saturated with phyto. Leave the clam in there for 15 -30 minutes, some will go longer. Try to keep the temp close to the tank temperature too.

 

[MsBeanCtr]

Ok, thanks very much for the input. I've been pretty good about 20% pwc every week. I might squeeze in another pwc on Wednesday eve. I ordered a ASM-G2 Saltwater Protein Skimmer. It's rated for a 200 gallon tank-since my tank is only 72 gallons I'm hoping I'll be fine.

Has anyone heard anything about this skimmer?

 

[melosu58]

Here is some info on what to look for.

http://www.wetwebmedia.com/proskimrart2.htm

 

[roka64]

I've heard of the ASMs and they tend to be a a good brand.

 

[cmor1701d]

I have direct experience with the ASM but I have heard of good reviews on that brand.

 

[MsBeanCtr]

That is a great article melosu. Thank you for the info roka and cmor. The skimmer is scheduled to arrive on Friday so I won't have to go as long as I thought without one.

 

[MsBeanCtr]

I just got the skimmer hooked up. I have only two negative comments about it so far.....boy! that thing is noisy and the instructions are terrible! No instructions for adjustments....and the installation instructions were simply a picture (yes, that is one picture). But, on the positive side.....it's doing a great job with skimming. Thanks folks!

 

[usmcmarc]

My Skimmer runs 24/7....my opinion is why not...Whats the harm in keeping the water clean all the time?