Four Tips for Buying Aquarium Protein Skimmers
Type
One of the first things to consider when buying aquarium protein skimmers is the type. The three types include venturi, counter current, and turbo. Each of these aquarium protein skimmers are efficient when used correctly. However, counter current designs are only suitable for use in small aquariums. This is due to the fact that these aquarium protein skimmers depend on the height of the water column they produce to remove organic compounds from the water.
Mount
One of the next things to consider when buying aquarium protein skimmers is how they’re mounted. One of the easiest and cheapest ways to use a skimmer is to mounted it in the sump pump. However, you will need to have a wet/dry filter. If you don’t have one of these filters, you will need to use aquarium protein skimmers that hang on the inside or outside of the tank. These skimmers take up more space than other designs.
Maintenance
You will also need to think about maintenance when buying aquarium protein skimmers. You will have to empty the collection cup periodically in order to prevent it from overflowing and contaminating the water in the aquarium. You won’t have to do this as often if you choose aquarium protein skimmers that have larger collection cups. If you decide to buy a counter current skimmer, you should know that you will have to replace the airstone frequently. You will need to clean the Venturi valve periodically also.
Ozone
Ozone can increase the efficiency of your aquarium protein skimmers as well as destroy organisms that can cause diseases. Ozone is produced using an ozonizer that is connected to the skimmer. However, all aquarium protein skimmers aren’t suitable to be used with an ozonizer. Therefore, if you want to use ozone in your aquarium, you will need to make sure that you buy a skimmer that is compatible with an ozonizer.
These are a few tips for buying aquarium protein skimmers. If you want to save space, you should look for a design that is placed inside your sump pump. You should also look to buy aquarium protein skimmers that have larger collection cups so that you don’t have to empty them as often.
