External skimmer or smaller internal skimmer???

[ReefChef19]

I need some opinions or ideas everyone. I had been thinking of getting another sump or skimmer, so I could be able to have a refugium. I have had the mind set of keeping everything wet in or over my sump, with that being said how do you guys feel about external skimmers? I an in the initial stage of thinking but like the ro regal external 200 or 250. The external would allow me to utilize the entire skimmer section as a refugium, a smaller skimmer would allow me to use portioned side of the skimmer for a refugium. Please give me your ideas. Thanks

https://www.bulkreefsupply.com/regal-200ext-8-recirculating-protein-skimmer-varios-reef-octopus.html
https://www.reef2reef.com/threads/red-sea-reefer-750xxl-70-gallon-saltwater-reef-sump.482651/

 

[Spare time]

I would ask yourself do you need the skimmer? You could use that whole area for a refugium which may be more than enough if you get the right light. I would either use a skimmer and a smaller refugium, or one big refugium with no skimmer.

 

[bam123]

I always like to do everything within the sump or over it. I run a big sump skimmer and an algae scrubber that overflows into the tank. Get the biggest of both that will fit. It works for me.

 

[ReefChef19]

I always like to do everything within the sump or over it. I run a big sump skimmer and an algae scrubber that overflows into the tank. Get the biggest of both that will fit. It works for me.

Thats what I do now, I have an aquamaxx co-3 skimmer and an ice cap medium ats. But I would like to go with a refugium and keep pods, since I would like to have a mandarin goby. Thanks

 

[ReefChef19]

I would ask yourself do you need the skimmer? You could use that whole area for a refugium which may be more than enough if you get the right light. I would either use a skimmer and a smaller refugium, or one big refugium with no skimmer.

Im not sure honestly because I don't know if the refugium would be enough by itself especially when first starting it. When put this way, I think maybe smaller skimmer and refugium. Tgat would be the safe way at least. Thanks

 

[Spare time]

Im not sure honestly because I don't know if the refugium would be enough by itself especially when first starting it. When put this way, I think maybe smaller skimmer and refugium. Tgat would be the safe way at least. Thanks

If you get a strong enough light then you can do just a refugium. You'd be suprised at how effective they can be. I would say if you play on getting really messy fish then go with a skimmer, but otherwise try out the refugium only first and see how it goes

 

[Troy V]

When it comes to skimmers or anything else that has a flood potential. I would definitely go internal. All it takes is the skimmer going nuts because it's Monday, or Murphy's law and you just flooded your room. That is one of the many reasons why I am in the skimmer less camp.