Protein Skimmer Question

[BoneSnapper]

Will I need one if i have coral. I am asking because I got mixed answers, someone at the fish store said that if I only have a few fish, and some coral I should be fine. I would really appreciate any help. Thanks.

 

[chrissaysyes]

You never really NEED a skimmer, it just helps in keeping your water parameters at top notch. Dont even bother unless you have the $$$ to buy one that's worthwhile.

 

[BoneSnapper]

Ok, I think I will ask for one at X-mas time.

 

[Musho3210]

water changes are better, if water changes cost too much to do too frequently, skimming helps a bit.

Skimming has a few drawbacks, keep that in mind.

 

[BoneSnapper]

What do you mean by drawbacks?

 

[Adrinal]

when you cross over 75g tank the cost of frequent water changes becomes more than the plumbing and skimmer.

There are other factors... like what you are keeping... more info would be helpful.

 

[1entra]

This has always been a big debate amongst reefers the world over... wether to use a protein skimmer or not. Good arguments have been stated by both those that agree on using one and those that disagree.

One of the main drawbacks of having a protein skimmer is that skimming not only removes dissolved organics but also can removed dissolved nutrients. So I myself agree with the majority of nano-reefers who believe that regular water changes obviate the need for a skimmer as Musho has already said!

Other drawbacks include skimmer are often quite noisy and a decent worthwile one costs a lot of money. No point getting a cheap one as it is just a waste!

 

[BoneSnapper]

How often do you do water changes then? Once a week?

 

[Adrinal]

as often as your system needs it or more.

anything else we tell you will be like.... watts per gallon...

 

[1entra]

I agree with adrinal, do water changes as often as your system requires them... it all depends on how heavily you stock. An average recommendation is about 10% every week or 15-20% every fortnight! Some people do bigger water changes more often whereas others do smaller less often. All depends on your system!

 

[Musho3210]

a lot dont even do any water changes, and it works

Anyway, skimming drawbacks is that it removes good stuff as well.

 

[1entra]

Well I wouldn't recommend you even consider not doing water changes, well not till you've got your tank fully set-up and mature anyway!

 

[BoneSnapper]

Does adding water count as a water change?

 

[Adrinal]

no. water changes involve moving more than evaporated clean water out of the tank...and replacing it with NSW.

 

[Musho3210]

you need to remove the actual water and replace with actual salt water for it to be a water change.