Can I run a skimmer only a few hours a day?

[MarkoD]

Originally Posted by Aquattro

What is the intention in not running it?

Lower power consumption

It's the biggest single power draw on my tank

[Aquattro]

Originally Posted by MarkoD

Lower power consumption

It's the biggest single power draw on my tank

But what are we talking about, cost wise? Probably insignificant in the overall cost of running a tank!

[MarkoD]

Cost wise and sound wise. I'm using a barracuda pump to feed it.

I was just wondering if there's any benefit to running it constantly if its not constantly pulling skimmate

[HaZRaTTy]

Why not sell it, and use the money for a smaller skimmer?

[Reef Pilot]

Originally Posted by MarkoD

Cost wise and sound wise. I'm using a barracuda pump to feed it.

Sounds like the "Hustler" beast skimmer...

[MarkoD]

Originally Posted by Reef Pilot

Sounds like the "Hustler" beast skimmer...

It is the beast skimmer. And I wouldn't sell it because it pulls so much. And I'm planning a bigger tank. And wanna keep it

[Delphinus]

I would think that part-time skimming is better than no skimming. Things I would look at: how does it do on startup? Does it overflow or anything on the first surge? (Mine does, I have to turn the air valve on slowly..) When it's off, does it empty back into the sump and affect the level for ATO? Do you get skimmate gunk on the inside walls that might dry out if left off for a few hours?

What component is the power draw? Is it a separate feed pump? You could throttle it back, which would have the dual benefit of drawing less energy, plus increasing contact time.

[MarkoD]

It's a becket skimmer. It's all one pump

There's no overflow. It's always consistent.