How to tell if you're overskimming?

[gobytron]

just an FYI...
the start/stop actin is very hard on pumps....

[reefwars]

I'd believe it you can hear it when it starts I can imagine constant turning off and starting up is bad on the pump, mine runs 24hrs a day it's only off for an hour every two days when I feed my corals

[Madreefer]

Originally Posted by gobytron

just an FYI...
the start/stop actin is very hard on pumps....

I'll second that. As for what you have, thats not overskimming IMO. Kinda lets you overstock as per your fish requirements.

[reefwars]

So what's the problems with over skimming?, I've heard of it but untill now i've never bothered to ask

[gobytron]

I think in general, you are better off to overskim and add trace elements if its a genuine concern for you...

You really cant overskim when it comes to waste removal, only in the removal of the trace elements and there are so may simple dosing options (including regular water changes)that I don't really think overskimming is a viable issue for most reefers.

[MitchM]

I don't see how over-skimming is possible. Skimmers can only pull out so much, after that the skimmate doesn't make it to the collection cup and you just wind up aerating the water in the skimmer tower.

That report in Advanced Aquarist said that skimmers can only remove about 30% of DOC's anyways.

Mitch

[Kronk]

Originally Posted by MitchM

I don't see how over-skimming is possible...

I agree.

[Slick Fork]

I've always been under the impression that overskimming is a real hazard, trace elements are easily replaced but I would be concerned about the microscopic life that gets removed through the skimmer

[Slick Fork]

I've never thought of the vertex as that low end. I've always been very happy with mine, especially at a third the price of the "high end" skimmer but that's another discussion...