Budget protein skimmers

caribbeanreefsurfer

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Hello everyone,

I have a 30 gallon tall tank and I need a protein skimmer but I’m not sure which one to get. Can you help me with some recommendations for budget HOB options or in tank options. I’m looking for recommendations of products you’ve personally tried. I don’t have a sump and my tank isn’t an AIO tank. I’m aware of the more expensive brands, I’m looking for a good under dog for medium bio load. Thanks in advance for your suggestions.
 
the ones I have tried on my 32 gallon are: AquaMaxx 1.5, the AquaReady Bullet 2.0, and the coralife hob. The Aquamaxx is the best, its a great skimmer. The Aquaready is like a cheaper version of the aquamaxx, its ok, but after using 2 years I am having little issue's pop up. I wouldn't suggest the coralife, it needed daily dialing in and once it leaked on the floor, but that almost 2 years ago maybe they are better now. I've also tried the fluval on smaller tanks but I didn't like that. Thats all I got, good luck
 
Check out IOAIO skimmers.
I use one and it's great.
Performed better than maxspect jump sk250. Way better!
 
Grab a used higher quality unit on marketplace. Skimmers last years and years. I’m running a reef octopus that is from the mid 2010s.
 

HOW MUCH DOES A FISH’S FEEDING REQUIREMENTS AFFECT YOUR STOCKING DECISIONS?

  • A lot! - I avoid fish that require frequent or specialized feeding

    Votes: 7 25.0%
  • Quite a bit, but an automatic feeder can change my answer

    Votes: 5 17.9%
  • It depends on whether my nutrient export can handle it

    Votes: 5 17.9%
  • It depends on how badly I want the fish

    Votes: 9 32.1%
  • Not much. I’m willing to adjust my routine

    Votes: 6 21.4%
  • Not at all. Feeding demands don’t limit my stocking choices

    Votes: 5 17.9%
  • I usually learn about the demanding feeding schedule after buying the fish!

    Votes: 2 7.1%
  • I haven’t really considered this before

    Votes: 3 10.7%
  • Something else (see my comments in the thread)

    Votes: 0 0.0%
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