How Long Should the Skimmer Stay On?

[Ineedtequilla]

Hey everyone, I just have a quick question—probably stupid one, but here we go...

I have a nano aquarium of 10.5 gallons. After a long break of the hobby, I had lost some motivation. But I recently got back into. Currently, i only have one shrimp, 2 snails, and a 3 hermit crabs.

I'm using a Hang On DoPhin PS2012 Protein Skimmer, which has a built-in skimmer. I was wondering—does it need to stay on 24/7, or can I turn it off at night or at certain times?

Also, has anyone here used this same model before? - Just to clarify, this is my first time using a skimmer.

Thanks!

 

[Llyod276]

Hmm the cheapo fluval filter is use on the wife's nano has built in skimmer and it runs 24/7. So... I guess as more people answer, maybe the question should be should I turn the skimmer off for any period?

Some say it strips nutrients by removing organics, which unless you have filter feeders, ( and quite a few thereof) i don't think would be too much of an issue.

 

[bubbgee]

With pH issues, I run it 24/7. I heavy feed and fully stocked so it works for me. On your tank, unless you need to raise pH, you can let it run intermittently or turned off unless your phosphates and nitrates are rising.

 

[ChrisfromBrick]

i turn off for water changes and adding phyto and that’s it.