Considering New Protein Skimmer

[Spike-Man]

Currently running ASM3 on my 180, the skimmer collects some nasty stuff, however I think it is under sized. Considering Reef Octopus Elite 200INT or Vertex Omega 200i. I did notice the Reef Octopus handles a larger tank and load then the Vertex. The ASM3 says up to 250 gallons but no reference to tank load levels.

All views welcome and thank you.

 

[jason2459]

ASM skimmers are classic and work well. If it's not broke why fix it because of some Arbitrary Manufacturer's rating? But between those two you listed I'd go with the Reef Octopus Elite. For a needlewheel skimmer though I'd check out the Aquamaxx line or the new IceCap line with a stock sicce pump instead of a modified one. Those are good price alternative. If price isn't an option I'd look at the MRC or Royal Exclusive line.

For larger tanks I tend to lean toward workhorse skimmers like Becketts or Mazzei Venturi based. Life Reef and MTC make great venturi based skimmers. MRC and MTC make great Beckett skimmers. Another alternative that works better on larger tanks vs smaller ones are the AquaC EV line. With these types of skimmers get the tallest body you can fit. I know Life Reef and MTC will customize a skimmer to fit your requirements.

 

[amps]

I've been running a Coral Box Cloud9 skimmer for a year now and I love it. My tank is 180G, moderately stocked and it pulls an amazing amount of junk from the tank. I have it draining into a 5G pail and I have to empty it every 3-4 weeks while skimming dry.

The price is great too.

 

[skim]

Why do you think it is undersized?

 

[Spike-Man]

Why do you think it is undersized?

Based on Reef Octopus and Vertex rating their skimmer by load. ASM3 rated for 250 gallon but no load reference.

 

[Spike-Man]

ASM skimmers are classic and work well. If it's not broke why fix it because of some Arbitrary Manufacturer's rating? But between those two you listed I'd go with the Reef Octopus Elite. For a needlewheel skimmer though I'd check out the Aquamaxx line or the new IceCap line with a stock sicce pump instead of a modified one. Those are good price alternative. If price isn't an option I'd look at the MRC or Royal Exclusive line.

For larger tanks I tend to lean toward workhorse skimmers like Becketts or Mazzei Venturi based. Life Reef and MTC make great venturi based skimmers. MRC and MTC make great Beckett skimmers. Another alternative that works better on larger tanks vs smaller ones are the AquaC EV line. With these types of skimmers get the tallest body you can fit. I know Life Reef and MTC will customize a skimmer to fit your requirements.

Good point on the arbitrary manufacturer's rating. I am slightly skeptical of the rating, but both manufactures have been around a long time. I am the model of if it's not broken LOL, been running the ASM3 for 10 years. Thanks for sharing your comments.

 

[mtraylor]

Don't over think yourself into buying a new skimmer. If you don't have any issues with water quality with your current skimmer. Ride that thing into the ground. As long as its working for you with no issues. Don't read any new doc...telling you that you need a new one. Your system will tell you when you need a new one. No one else.