Can I add a protein skimmer to an established tank?

[csouth1994]

I have a 75 g tank for about 3 months now. and I am not very familiar on protein skimmers but I heard it would be very helpful. Can I add that to my tank even though it's already established? How do I do this?

 

[melosu58]

You can either add it to your sump or get a HOB one. You can start them anytime.

 

[csouth1994]

I don't have anything except an hang on filter. And I have no idea how to do anything else. Could you please give me a process on how to do things as this is an established aquarium?

 

[melosu58]

A HOB filter is not enough. Im guessing you don't have a sump. They are a good idea and can be done just as you are. I`ll post this three part link on them

Everything You Always Wanted to Know About Sumps, Part I by Greg Taylor - Reefkeeping.com

This will give you added water volume plus a place to put your skimmer. IF you don't want a sump or refuge you can get a HOB skimmer. I used a Skilter Skimmer for a while. Most folks don't like them but it pulled out a lot of skimate for me. Also till you can get all this done PWC`s are still a way to remove Dissolved organic compounds from the water. Also a lot of folks use canister filters. There are several options here.

 

[csouth1994]

So how do I attach the sump and a protein skimmer to the tank?

 

[melosu58]

The water will drain down to your sump by a HOB overflow and return to the tank with a return pump. The link will explain it all.

 

[GouldFever]

I have a 55 gallon sw tank and run a hob filter and a hob protein skimmer with 2 power heads and roughly 70lbs of live rock. With your 75 a similar setup would be sufficient.

 

[csouth1994]

Would a hob skimmer work on the side? Just because I have my tank all the way backed up to the wall

 

[GouldFever]

It would work, but wouldn't look so good.

 

[csouth1994]

Any one that you know would work good but also could hang on the side?

 

[GouldFever]

I'd imagine any of them would work, but it's dependent on what top you have on the tank. Personally I'd move your tank off the wall. A lot of work, but probably necessary