algae scrubber vs skimmer

[hrvat31]

I've been wanting to start a saltwater tank for a while but i'm trying to make it cheap but efficient. I heard that a diy algae scrubber is better and cheaper tell me what you guys think.

 

[kdpuffer]

I've only heard good things about algae scrubbers. I think a skimmer would be an asset to have also though.

 

[hrvat31]

As I was saying, i'm trying to keep out as cheap as possible so how essential is a skimmer. If I can live without a skimmer tell me.

 

[Bectan01]

How big is the tank? I have heard people say you can do without a skimmer on tanks under 55g. I am a big fan of a skimmer and I do think they help. Have you looked into a DIY skimmer? I also think that saltwater and cheap don't really go hand in hand if you want to do it right.

 

[hrvat31]

Well if I can so something for cheap all do it but if I have to spend money I will. Also diy algae scrubbers are very efficient but a lot of diy protein skimmers are not very efficient. also it is a 20 gallon. Thanks for you opinion and help.

 

[Bectan01]

In a 20g you could get away without a skimmer for sure. You could get away without a filter altogether actually. Research the Berlin method of filtration, no mechanical, just natural...

 

[hrvat31]

I thought that was just the minimum for a saltwater aquarium. But if I added a algae scrubber it would be even better. So i'm still gonna go with an algae scrubber. Thank you.