Does surrounding skimmer water depth need to remain constant?

[Swingline77]

If I have a sump without any baffles, water levels would fluctuate mildly if the output/return related to the DT isn't tuned right. Is this a problem for skimmer function? Is it always better to add a baffle to the sump to keep the water level surrounding the skimmer at the exact same depth?

 

[Crabs McJones]

It can be. If the level gets to low it wont skim, if the level gets to high you can over skim and overflow the collection cup...depended on how much of a fluctuation you experience.

 

[AlexStinson]

You really need it to stay constant, once a skimmer is dialed in even a small change can greatly change the skimmers performance. For example, my skimmer went nuts when i increased my return's flow rate. The added water going through the sump raised the level in that compartment and it went nuts. This was probably a change of 1/4-1/2"

 

[Rakie]

Yes. It's probably one of the most important aspects of proper skimming. Sorry buddy, you're gonna have to make it consistent one way or another.

 

[Swingline77]

Thanks, will do!

 

[A sea K]

That or modify the skimmer to a recirculating type if that is possible with the skimmer design you already have.

 

[Swingline77]

I wasn't familiar with a "recirculating protein skimmer". Thanks.