Upgrade not ready yet and DT skimmer quit!

[MitchM]

Your nutrients are going to accumulate regardless if all you do is try to replace that skimmer.
I would cut the supply and return pipes, clamp on some flexible hose and set up a rubbermaid tub as a new sump, totally bypassing that existing tiny sump.
Trying to move a tank with nutrient and GHA issues will cause a lot of headaches when you move up to your next larger tank.

[shootingstar]

Originally Posted by MitchM

Your nutrients are going to accumulate regardless if all you do is try to replace that skimmer.
I would cut the supply and return pipes, clamp on some flexible hose and set up a rubbermaid tub as a new sump, totally bypassing that existing tiny sump.
Trying to move a tank with nutrient and GHA issues will cause a lot of headaches when you move up to your next larger tank.

Mitch,
This might be the best solution, I could buy the new skimmer now and set it up in a rubbermaid tub. Although I know lots of people use them I thought they were best avoided as they are not food grade plastic ?

Given this as a potential game plan does anyone here have thoughts/recommendations on the skimmer?

Assumming a total water volume of 165 - 185 I am considering:

Vertex IN-180 or IN-250
or
SWC Xtreme 200

comments on any of the above 3 or perhaps an alternate would be much appreciated.

[MitchM]

Originally Posted by shootingstar

Mitch,
This might be the best solution, I could buy the new skimmer now and set it up in a rubbermaid tub. Although I know lots of people use them I thought they were best avoided as they are not food grade plastic ?
....

I've only seen information regarding the rubbermaid Brute garbage cans that show they have plasticizers in them that can be harmful to invertebrates.
It might be a better idea to find a substitute for a cheap sump that would be food safe. I've never heard anything bad about the plain rubbermaid containers.
I'm not even sure what the plasticizers are used for. They may be used to keep the garbage can flexible in cold weather, which wouldn't be the intended use for the rubbermaid tubs. (just a guess)