Skimmer Issue

[Platehead]

Hi – about 6 months ago, I bought a reef octopus S130 space saver skimmer and I have frequent issues with the collection cup overflowing and draining my ATO reservoir, as I have the skimmate going into a jug, as the collection cup is difficult to remove.

The skimmer is in about 7” of water and I am constantly adjusting it. It either overflows or doesn’t skim at all. I never had an issue with my previous skimmer, but upgraded, as I was told Reef Octopus was a great skimmer.

Any ideas??

thx

 

[daves-reef]

What size tank (Total Gallon) is system. Is the skimmer rated for that tank size. I would adjust so that bubbles are at very bottom of neck. Don't worry about if you collect skimate at first. If your producing waste it will form a ring in neck.

If you get waste on the neck great. Then make ever slow adjustments.
You might try adding a shutoff to your skimmate collector.

 

[PSU4ME]

You give it a good vinegar bath?

 

[Cpage101]

make sure it is not to deep in the water

 

[Platehead]

I’d say about 130 to 140. Skimmer is properly sized per BRS

 

[Lurchin]

I have this same skimmer, and I would get the occasional overflow. What I determined to be the issue is whenever, I would change my filter sock, I would get the overflow. To remedy, I would turn off the skimmer for 1/2 a day to allow a film to cover the sock. Once I started doing this, the matter was resolved. Not sure if this is your same issue, but this was mine. Hope this helps.

 

[Platehead]

Thx for getting back to me. I don’t run filter socks. Skimmer is in 7” of water.

 

[coralfishreef]

Do you turn your both return pump and skimmer off when you feed?

Could also try raising the skimmer up by an inch or so.

 

[Platehead]

Hi - I just turn off power heads. I’ll try raising it.
Thx

 

[Lurchin]

Yes, water level needs to be between 7-8". So if you are at 7, then you would actually need to lower it a bit if you can.

 

[italquam]

Get a Lifereef Skimmer and save yourself the headaches. I have never had an overflow issue in 6 years using one