How long should I run my skimmer

[reefer09]

First time poster here. I have a 130 gal reef aquarium with a heavy bioload. Currently my phosphates and nitrates are non-detectable. Up to now, I have always run my skimmer 24/7, but I am wondering if that is really necessary. I've been in the hobby for almost 1 year now and still have a lot to learn. I have not been this passionate about a hobby since I flew u-control airplanes as a kid!

Any perspective on the skimmer use is appreciated

Thanks,
Jeff

 

[aquabull]

As your tank will become used to the elevated oxygen levels the skimmer provides, it is always a good idea to keep it running.

 

[btkrausen]

Yup, been in saltwater for about 8 years now and have always run it 24/7

 

[thewackyreefer]

Agree w/ 24/7

 

[kuyatwo]

I only turn mine off when I feed the fish and corals an that's due to I turn return pumps off and slimmer would overflow


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[reefer09]

ok - i didn't think about the oxygen... makes perfect sense.

 

[davework]

Pumps seem to also work a lot better when run constantly. Otherwise they calcify up and things crawl in. Run it all the time unless you can automate it to shut off during feed.

 

[revhtree Verified Admin]

Welcome to R2R!!

 

[skulls_and_sparrows]

24/7 as well...I turn it off the clean the cup and it...I have heard of people not even turning it off when they clean the collection cup as they worry about it hurting the pump...I do not think it will.

 

[AZDesertRat]

24/7. If its not circulating its going stagnant or septic so keep it moving.

 

[reefer09]

thanks for all the feedback. I ended up scheduling my controller to turn it off for an hour each morning when I add Microbacter7 and SnowCoral.

 

[reefer09]

Thanks!

 

[bucksfan1976]

24/7 my friend