what to look for when buying...

[Aqualis]

...a protein skimmer. i am really interested in getting one, not really out of need, but more a desire to get all the equipment i am going to need. eventually, i would like to have a nice coral tank, but before i do that, i want to make sure i have everything set up right.

also, any tips for buying a RO/DI unit? i know that i dont need to get one of these, but i have a real issue with paying my LFS for water. it just feels dirty.

tia

 

[malkore]

does the tank have a sump? if so, look at in-sump skimmers. If not, you'll need a good hang-on skimmer, Aqua C Remora or CPR Bak-pak 2R.

 

[jmmiller]

Check out filtersdirect on ebay for a good ro/di unit. I bought one from them and it works really well and was only $100. They also sell different attachments for them so I was able to hook up the filter in my laundry room. As far as skimmers go, I would stay away from a seaclone. I had one and it was a real POS and gave me nothing but trouble and I finally had to get rid of it. It was reallly cheap so I guess you get what you pay for. Keep that in mind when purchasing your skimmer.

 

[GSXRDan]

Def go with ebay..mine was 69 dollars and it works great. Its a 6 stage filter and one from a store was around 250