62G Starfire Reef [40x18x20]

JDigital · #1 10-17-2013, 02:57 PM

It must be that crazy air we have out in Airdrie...

Curious what skimmer you got?

sphelps · #2 10-17-2013, 05:26 PM

Check was happens during a power cycle. If your sump level rises during shut down and everything turns back on at the same time, the short time the skimmer runs at the elevated level can sometimes be enough the fill and overflow the cup, once full it just continues to bubble over because of the lid extension. So a brief power cut could explain such skimmer issues.

JDigital · #3 10-17-2013, 09:24 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by sphelps

Check was happens during a power cycle. If your sump level rises during shut down and everything turns back on at the same time, the short time the skimmer runs at the elevated level can sometimes be enough the fill and overflow the cup, once full it just continues to bubble over because of the lid extension. So a brief power cut could explain such skimmer issues.

Definitely a possibility! I know just from switching off my power bars for water changes that the sump rises. I suppose with all the construction in my area there is a likelihood of power being cut briefly, although it NEVER happens when I'm actually home

. Thanks Steve. I'm not sure my Reef Keeper Lite tracks power outages like my Apex at work though. Will have to check that out or upgrade.

sphelps · #4 10-17-2013, 09:42 PM

Most controllers allow blackout delays so if it turns out to be an issue adding a delay to the skimmer circuit will fix the issue.

SoloSK71 · #5 10-18-2013, 01:37 AM

+1 on the cycle time between power off and the sump filling and turning everything back on. I have now incorporated this into my feeding and dosing schedule. I power off everything, feed, and then power on the power head, then the return pump, then the skimmer. Dosing, I turn the skimmer off, dose, add live bacteria, and turn the skimmer back on in the morning.

Charles