In-sump skimmer for a 69g beginner reef

[Reinboordt]

Hello, my tank has been set up for almost 2 months now and I want to look at adding a protein skimmer to my sump. There’s only one place with a constant height that would work and the dimensions are as follows:
6 3/8” x 11.5” height is 13”, I can add a platform if necessary.

The last time I kept a reef was about 15 years ago and the aquamedic 90g tank had a built in skimmer so never had to buy one.

I’d like some decent beginner options, nothing that will break the bank but I also don’t mind paying a little more for a good product. I need something that can ship to Canada.

Thanks in advance!

Here’s a tank shot

 

[Mr. Mojo Rising]

Have you checked out reefsupplies.com, they are located in Montreal and I use them for most of my "machinery" needs.

I've used a bubble magus skimmer for a few years, it worked well, but after 2.5 years it needed constant dialing in every day so I sold it and got a deltec which I am so happy with, I've never had a skimmer as good as the deltec.

On a side note your tank looks nice but I would suggest to get one or a pair of powerheads into the tank. Saltwater tanks need good flow and good surface agitation. Seeing the fish at the top of the water suggests it may be low oxygen in the water, so good flow and surface agitation will help with this. Good luck

 

[Reinboordt]

Thank you for your reply.
I’ll check out the website and I’ll keep the deltec brand in mind. I have heard mixed things about bubblemagus so thanks for your experience.

They’re at the top because they want to be fed, I was just over at the tank taking close up pics of the snails for my tank thread lol.
I will agree that I am planning to get powerheads at some point, my plan was to see how it goes without and when I get my skimmer, also grab a powerhead.
I have avoided algae on the gravel from deadspots so I think my flow is not as bad as it could be. I tried to aim the output tubes to get a good spread but like everything there’s always a more efficient option.

i like the jebao cross flow powerhead, seems like it would give some good nonlinear flow.

I’m not looking for anything crazy expensive but also not looking for some $100 nano skimmer from Amazon.
I’ve found a few options here that fit, any feedback on these?

The Reef Octopus Classic 110SS Space Saver Skimmer would fit and looks like a good option but it’s a little on the pricier side for a beginner.

MaxSpect Jump SK200 Protein Skimmer seems good too but it’s 6.5” x 6.5” means I risk it being 1/8” too wide.

The deltec looks really good, and at 15cm width it would come in under 6” so that would also be a little more expensive option.

The budget friendly choice appears to be:
AquaReady ConeS Q-1 In-Sump Protein Skimmer. At 5.9” it would fit sideways in the chamber.

Thanks for your input mr Mojo!

 

[Reinboordt]

Quick bump/update.

I’ll be ordering the skimmer on Wednesday. I am currently torn between the two following skimmers:

AquaReady ConeS Q-1 In-Sump Protein Skimmer

Reef Octopus Classic 110SS Space Saver Skimmer

Reef octopus is about $100 more, I guess I’m wondering if it’s worth the extra money? Both would work in my sump

Thanks!