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Protein Skimmers Bubble Away Toxic Buildup in Your Tank
To keep a saltwater aquarium free of excess nutrients and other extraneous matter, you will need to install a protein skimmer. Unlike mechanical filters, protein skimmers remove dissolved proteins from the water column before they have a chance to break down into toxic ammonia and nitrite in your aquarium. It is a supplemental filtering system that creates tiny bubbles in a reaction chamber, which force proteins up to the surface of the chamber and into a collection cup. Protein skimmers increase the oxygen level, reduce phosphates that cause algae formation, and remove toxins released by corals and invertebrates. Elevated oxygen and proper gas exchange help to maintain an even pH level by counteracting the pH-lowering effects of nighttime carbon dioxide production. They help to maintain water quality and clarity and reduce the need for water changes and filter changes in a marine aquarium.
Skimmers come in three styles: air driven, venturi, and turbo. The first type is used in smaller aquariums and is powered by an air pump that creates bubbles that flow against the incoming water, or counter-current. Venturi comes in different styles and sizes and mixes air with water under high pressure for more effervescence. Turbo also comes in a variety of styles to suit all size tanks, and uses a water pump that mixes with air to create a frothy foam that is forced into the skimmer chamber, also called a needle wheel skimmer. The venturi and turbo types are considered the most effective. Whether run by water or air pump, however, all of these units mix air and water to create micro-bubbles. Organic substances are caught by the bubbles through a process called adsorption and skimmed into the collection cup. Units fit inside the filter's sump, adjacent to the filter, and are either installed internally or hang on the tank. A freestanding, sumpless model can stand below the aquarium. The choice depends on your aquarium's size, filter, and space. For best results, choose the biggest skimmer to fit your tank; it will require less maintenance and clean more efficiently.
It will take two weeks to break in your skimmer. Adjust air-water mix, water flow, and airflow. Foam collection can take up to three months in a new aquarium. Clean the unit regularly and make the flow adjustments to maintain the skimmer at peak performance. Remove and clean the collection cup daily; adjust the flow regulator to optimize bubbles and avoid over skimming; disassemble the inlet pipe and clean it with a bottle brush and clear air tubes with hot water; inspect hoses for tight connections, no tangling, and open passages; and finally, maintain water levels above the skimmer.
Skimmers come in three styles: air driven, venturi, and turbo. The first type is used in smaller aquariums and is powered by an air pump that creates bubbles that flow against the incoming water, or counter-current. Venturi comes in different styles and sizes and mixes air with water under high pressure for more effervescence. Turbo also comes in a variety of styles to suit all size tanks, and uses a water pump that mixes with air to create a frothy foam that is forced into the skimmer chamber, also called a needle wheel skimmer. The venturi and turbo types are considered the most effective. Whether run by water or air pump, however, all of these units mix air and water to create micro-bubbles. Organic substances are caught by the bubbles through a process called adsorption and skimmed into the collection cup. Units fit inside the filter's sump, adjacent to the filter, and are either installed internally or hang on the tank. A freestanding, sumpless model can stand below the aquarium. The choice depends on your aquarium's size, filter, and space. For best results, choose the biggest skimmer to fit your tank; it will require less maintenance and clean more efficiently.
It will take two weeks to break in your skimmer. Adjust air-water mix, water flow, and airflow. Foam collection can take up to three months in a new aquarium. Clean the unit regularly and make the flow adjustments to maintain the skimmer at peak performance. Remove and clean the collection cup daily; adjust the flow regulator to optimize bubbles and avoid over skimming; disassemble the inlet pipe and clean it with a bottle brush and clear air tubes with hot water; inspect hoses for tight connections, no tangling, and open passages; and finally, maintain water levels above the skimmer.
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