Skimmer Help

[MikeYQM]

I'm trying to decide on a skimmer for my 30 gal build. I know these units are a bit of overkill, but I want to handle a good bio load. I'm trying to choose between the Super Reef Octopus LX2000S, LX1000S, XP1000S and Deltec MCE300.

Any thoughts/experience would help greatly!

Mike

 

[CaptainAhab]

IMO a bigger skimmer isn't a license to over stock, or stock w/ species inappropriate for your tank size. For a 30g, I'd think any HOB would do it though I'm partial to the Octopus (not necessarily the 'super duper reef buster wallet buster') models

 

[carey]

I didn't nesssarily find that the skimmer increased my bioload, just kep my tank cleaner than without. Plus I have alot of corals.

If you are religious with your water changes, don't overstock or overfeed you should be ok without a skimmer in my opinion.
Otherwise, as stated there are quite a few hang on back models to choose from, ranging from cheapo to expensive. Give aquacave.com a lookisie, they have a great selection.

 

[amdninjaboy]

I have a Prism Pro HOB skimmer that I was running on my 35 gal tank. It worked good for the price.. I dont have any experience with any of the models you mention.. I now run a Skimz E-Series SM161, took a bit to break in( almost a week before it quit releasing microbubbles into my tank) but its working awesome now...

 

[MikeYQM]

Thanks, I guess I'm trying to plan ahead to a possible increase to a 75-90 gal upgrade down the road. Don't want to buy a small one now then change it later. Besides, I like overkill as long as there's no point of diminishing returns...

 

[melosu58]

Moved to General Hardware and equipment discussion.