skimmer and return pump questions

[Macboy]

I recently converted to a 120 rr tank. I am running an Octopus skimmer with a 2000 lph motor (believe that to be about 530gph) pump. Also running a Mag 9.5 return pump which worked great in my 72 gal tank but is not powerful enough for my 120 which has two overflows. I occasionally have problems with my skimmer overflowing even with the mod valve closed all the way. I have to keep emptying the cup until it finally starts producing foam. Works great once dialed in but this is driving me nuts. Also thinking of getting a Mag 1800 pump for my return. Is this too powerful? I read the Mags run hot so anyone suggest another pump? Honestly, the Mag pump I have now works great and is relatively quiet except for some vibration noise so I wouldn't have a problem sticking with the Mag.
Thanks,
Brian

 

[JohnK]

If you can, go with a good external pump.

Do you have some sort of auto top off? If not, the fluxuations in sump level may be part of the problem with the skimmer. Otherwise, maybe try running the water level a bit lower in the skimmer.

 

[Macboy]

I don't have auto top off but will be looking into how to set one up. I was thinking the water level was too high in my sump but wasn't sure. I will try running it a couple inches lower and see what happens. Didn't really consider running an external pump but sounds like a good idea. Would also give me more room in my sump for the fuge. Thanks.

 

[alpha0r]

You should really get an ATO because they make your life so much easier! But you could also put a baffle between the skimmer section and the return section so that as water evaporates the water level only changes in the return section.

As for return pumps, I'm not a big fan of pushing lots of water though a sump. I think it can cause a lot of problems.

 

[Macboy]

I heard that from a few reefers. Pushing a large volume of water through the sump can decrease the skimmer's effectiveness. I do have baffles separating the chambers. Currently, I top off manually every couple of days. It's not really a pain but I like convenience so ATO is something I'm going to do. As for the pump, I ordered a mag 1800. The return outlets are just dribbling water out with my mag 9.5 so I do need something more powerful.