PROGRAMMING SKIMMER WITH APEX

[jose hernandez]

looking to program my skimmer using my apex to run for only 12 hours a day its way to big for my tank its taking all my nutrients out

 

[SuncrestReef]

You can use the If Time command on the skimmer output. This example will turn it off from 6pm to 6am:

Fallback OFF
Set ON
If Time 18:00 to 05:59 Then OFF

See my tutorial on Apex Timers for more details and examples: https://www.reef2reef.com/ams/neptune-apex-programming-tutorials-part-2-timers.689/

 

[jose hernandez]

forgot to mention i have it programmed with my return pump to turn off when the return is off and then delay for 15 minutes to turn back on afterwards

 

[jose hernandez]

also when is the best time to turn it on and off

 

[SuncrestReef]

forgot to mention i have it programmed with my return pump to turn off when the return is off and then delay for 15 minutes to turn back on afterwards

Just merge your current code with the code I posted, but be sure to place any commands that turn it ON above any commands that turn it OFF.

also when is the best time to turn it on and off

That question is beyond the scope of the "Aquarium Controllers" forum. I assume it is going to depend on other factors such as when you feed your fish/corals, what your lighting and refugium lighting schedule is, and what other nutrient export techniques you're using. You might want to post that question in the "Reef Aquarium" or "Reef Chemistry" forums.

 

[minus9]

If you must turn it off, I would run it during the night when CO2 increases to offset the drop in pH and shut it off during the day. Long term, I would consider buying an appropriately sized skimmer.

 

[jose hernandez]

i have no refugium all i run is a marine pure block carbon chemipure elite my skimmer which is rated for 400 gallons and a 57 watt uv as far as feeding i was feeding 3x a day cut it down 2x a day feeding is done afternoon around 2 then again around 6 in the evening

 

[minus9]

What size tank? Dry rock? Ocean rock? Alternatively, you can slowly remove the blocks and stop using chemical filtration and just let the skimmer do all the heavy lifting. I wouldn't reduce feeding necessarily, but increase a little. The key is heavy in and heavy out, import/export.

 

[jose hernandez]

Started dry Marco rock it’s a reefer 750xxl 200 gallons