LF skimmer suggestions for 180 gl tank
 

I'm not happy with my current skimmer and looking for help making a decision. I've read through other threads on skimmers but really don't know what to get. Unfortunately my notes are in my office on what i've been looking at. In less than a year, I'm on my 3rd skimmer just for my 55 gl tank, don't want to make the same mistakes. all suggestions welcome!

Deltecs
 

If you really want a good skimmer Deltecs are your best bet. Little pricey but worth every penny. Always buy bigger than your tank capacity now cause you will upgrade later on we always do.

Erick

I'm running a reef octopus xp-2000 on my 180 and have been very satisfied.

skimmer
 

Vertx IN280 on a 200 gal system real work horse for me

Thank you! I think the deltic is out, very pricey...i've got an 80gl sump so I'm thinking a skimmer rated to 350 - 450 gl? Would this be overkill? I will read up on the reef octopus and vertex. Does price really mean better?

If I was looking for a skimmer, I'd buy the Euroreef RS180 for sale here for $200. I have a very similar model on my 180 and wouldn't trade it for anything.

+1 several people using these & are very happy with them. I am running a Reef Octopus 3000 RC ( eBay for $300 )

Well these suggestions are great. Hopefully find either the euroreef or reef octopus this weekend. Appreciate the help!

Im running a reef octopus 3000 internal on a 150g display and 80g sump. Skimming like a champ!

What about a Vertex Alpha Cone? Myself I wouldn't recommend a Vertex IN series. Been there done that- cheap lousy pumps and the pump is a pretty important part of a skimmer!!

I agree with the grizz. The reef octopus is an awesome skimmer. It's working great on my 130 and it's rated for a 300gal

EuroReef 180 is good, but the genX 4100 pumps anr't reliable. We use them in the store, and out of 10 of them, I bet I have replace 1/2 the impellers, and 3 pumps in under 4 years. Skimmers work great though.

I'm also using a reef octopus 3000int on a 150g display and 90g sump works great

I have euro reef RC 180 with eheim pump for sale if you are interested. :-)

It might be pricey but the Bubbleking 200 would be good. I think there was a gently used one for sale in the classifieds a couple of months ago.

I have a BBK and I really like it. Not too noisy either compared to some skimmers.

I totally agree with Reefgirl on the Bk200 or any other skimmer that uses an Askoll motor block. The only skimmers I would buy are skimmers with Askoll or Eheim motor blocks

Hydor!!! You will see on my previous posts over the years, there build quality is exceptional, top notch and no one compares to their customer service. From free replacement impellors, to replacement parts that I broke again for FREE.

I've just reviewed and made a list based on suggestions (again, thank you!)
Super Reef Octopus 3000 RC
Bubble King 200
Deltec
Euroreef RS 180 (not genx 4100 pumps)
Skimz 251 Cone Skimmer
Hydor
Vertex Alpha Cone

Motors to consider
Askoll Motor or Eheim Motor

I'm going to look into these and make a decision. My tank is cycling and I know there's tons of gooey stuff in there, so need to make a quick decision! I pulled my skimmer out and took it apart yesterday to see if I could get it working, noticed some slime at the base of the cup, but nothing pushing upwards. And, its still not doing anything after putting it back together.....:twised:

Bubble King mini 180:razz:.....to bad the timing wasnt better.....I just may have one for sale soon (couple monthes)

Thank you to all for the suggestions and pms. I decided to go for the reef octopus 5000 int. Here's the funny part, I made sure it would fit, have enough clearance to remove the cup once in the sump, excellent right? Except the base is too big to fit between the sump and the stand, didn't think of this. I've drained the sump, going to see if we can move it enough to get it in...fml:twised:

The 5000 is a really big skimmer for that water volume. Just my two cents but im thinking you will have trouble keeping a steady foam hight without adding a crazy bioload. They are great shimmers im running a xp5000 cone ext on 500gals.

I have to agree with raven. The 5000 will be almost too much for your sump. My friend has the 5000 on his 250g and is running a 110g sump and he even says it's a little overkill with his setup.

I did question if it was going to be too much and was assured it would be ok. I've got it running and while I know it's breaking in it seems ok. I wanted the 3000 and probably should have searched a bit harder. Guess I just have to see how it goes. It's already pulling stuff out but I can see it needs adjusting.

Can you run it external? else you will have to do it again if you want to clean the skimmer body :-)

I'm probably going to get the 3000. I thought about the maintenance afterwards and this is going to be an issue. On the plus side, I really like this skimmer - the water in the cup is nasty looking and it's picking up loads of crap already. The foam level is fine! If it wasnt for the diameter of the base, id keep it! Lesson learned, when sick and head is pounding, don't make major purchase decisions. Have to say however the customer service I'm receiving has been stellar!

I'm no expert but my skimmer is oversized for my tank too and the foam is inconsistent because of it. It doesn't bother me because eventually after its properly tuned it it will spill over and then the foam dies down a bit. Once the foam has enough organics in it it will build up again and spill over again. I just get spurts of spillage. Instead of emptying the cup daily I'm able to do it every 5-7 days.