Protein Skimmers

[shananana]

I'm setting up a salt water tank. I have always had fresh water so I'm a complete newby! They have a protein skimmer at the pet store for $150 but I found them online for $60/$70. Any advice on a good one. Is it going to make a real big difference if I buy a cheaper one?

 

[FishKing87]

What size tank are you planning on getting? what do you plan on stocking it with?

Depending on the above a good quality skimmer will go a long way.
Shop around though, you will find better prices on some websites or even smaller lfs' will bargain with you.
I have a used one I had on my tank for 18 months or so. It's a hang on saline solutions skimmer. My lfs sold it for about $100+ but I went to a small store and they ha a knock off one for $50! Make sure you shop around, dont buy anything on impulse!

 

[Terrance]

If its your first saltwater tank, then get a used skimmer from another hobbyist. Check the classified sectij of AA or craigslist. Online prices beats the prices at all my LFS.

 

[joy13]

How big is your tank sometimes water changes are more effective than a skimmer.

 

[shananana]

I have a 35 gallon tank. So far all's I figured out that's going in it is clown fish and star fish. I live in a small town in South Dakota. There's not a huge variety of fish to buy here lol