Skimmer overflow incident questions

[spit.fire]

I put a float switch in my skimmer to cut the power if the cup is full

[IanWR]

Thanks for reassuring me that disaster has not struck. I suppose I'd rather over react than under react.

I am familiar with the initial skimmer freak out with new socks, but I had last changed them on Monday. I also hadn't added any new stock, meds, etc, just food like normal. My takeaway on this is to keep my skimmer a little cleaner so that in the event of an overflow there will be a limited amount of crud getting into the tank.

My skimmer is in a chamber with baffles so the water level doesnt change.

I'll do a complete clean on the skimmer tomorrow and will definitely check the air intake, thanks for the pointer.

I can really see the advantage of a float switch, or a water sensor or what have you. If I end up getting a controller that will be something I'll add.

As for the socks, I have both felt and mesh. So far I agree that the mesh are significantly easier to clean. They also fit my sock holders better. I bought a pair of the vertex 300m from j&l, will be ordering some more.

Thanks all!

[mrhasan]

Originally Posted by IanWR

Thanks for reassuring me that disaster has not struck. I suppose I'd rather over react than under react.

If you do that, you would be leaving this hobby soon Skimmer overflow is possibly one of the most common thing to happen in the hobby (besides ich, dead fishes, RTN, etc.). I promised myself that I won't be feeding my corals ever with any sort of micro particular foods. And I don't use filter socks. Oh and never use epoxy!

[Doug]

Originally Posted by spit.fire

I put a float switch in my skimmer to cut the power if the cup is full

Great idea. I think my new Lifereef has a recirc overflow feature to prevent it but I still like the float switch.

Plus no more socks. None in my new sump.