Should skimmer go before or after refugium?
In most common saltwater aquarium setups the protein skimmer will come first before the refugium. In many saltwater aquarium sumps, the largest chamber is the second chamber and a protein skimmers though varied in size will only fit in the second chamber before the refugium.
Is a refugium better than a skimmer?
They both do great things but very differently. A skimmer will remove organics before they break down, and a refugium will remove them after. The benefit of the skimmer in that regard is that the nitrates stay lower to begin with, where a refugium needs nitrates so it has to compete with algae in the display.
Is a skimmer better than a filter?
A protein skimmer serves a function similar to that of a filter, with one added bonus: A skimmer removes waste before it breaks down into harmful toxins. You may not need a filter if you have a functioning protein skimmer, but it may be wise to consider alternative filtration depending on your aquarium’s needs.
Do I need a skimmer in my sump?
Therefore, using a protein skimmer really helps keep your aquarium water clean and helps to avoid unsightly nuisance algae. There are several different types of protein skimmers available: such as hang-on, in-sump and external protein skimmers. In-sump skimmers are the most widely used skimmers.
Where does the protein skimmer go in a sump?
put the skimmer in the refugium section of your sump ,and if you want to have refugium get the hang on refugium like CPR or different model.
When should I add a protein skimmer?
As for the original question, I would put the skimmer on as soon as you can. If you wait until the water starts getting nasty, the skimmer will go bananas when you first set it up, and it will be much tougher dialing it in. Your main source of O2 is your return and in-tank circulation.
Can you run a reef tank with just a skimmer?
It works fine, don’t worry. I thought it would… I just like the idea of food/junk not being in the filter, at least when the extra bits of food are left in the tank, the CUC has a chance to eat it. It just makes sense to me.
Do you need a filter sock if you have a skimmer?
A filter sock is not necessary for a saltwater reef tank. A filter sock can be used to remove larger organic debris but there is no need if you have other methods of removing them such as protein skimmers, clean-up crew, or healthy bacteria in your tank.
Do protein skimmers raise PH?
Yes. I’ve noticed that my PH is at its highest when running my skimmer continuously – due to the aeration it provides.
Do protein skimmers reduce phosphates?
Protein Skimmer An efficient skimmer will remove dissolved and particulate organic matter, improving water quality and limiting phosphates and nitrates.