Protein Skimmer AIO Help

[NewR33FER]

I want an Tideline 62 Gallon All in One. I want it all to be very clean, with no protien skimmer very visible, I will make a custom AIO sump cover, but don’t want it too big or bulky. I was thinking about a Sicce Shark 300, which is rated up to 80 gallons, would it be a good Idea to get two protien skimmers?

 

[exnisstech]

Skimmer is going to have to be visible because the cup is going to stick up out of the back chamber. I wouldn't bother running two skimmers. Many folks including myself run tanks with no skimmer.

 

[NewR33FER]

Is a 15% weekly water change about what a skimmer can do?

 

[exnisstech]

I don't understand the question. Protein skimmer has nothing to do with water changes.

 

[NewR33FER]

I’m saying that if I do a larger water change weekly, I can reduce nitrates and phosphates that way instead of using a skimmer? I’m sorry, I am practically brand new.

 

[Malum Argenteum]

Is a 15% weekly water change about what a skimmer can do?

They're not really doing the same thing so the comparison isn't fair.

A water change removes x% of all pollutants each time you do the water change (WCs do lots of other things too). This allows whatever pollutants to build up (very basically -- the fish/corals release waste, then that rots) until you do the WC, which brings them down whatever %, after which they start their climb.

A water change also replaces major and minor trace elements and helps keep them balanced.

A skimmer removes whatever pollutants it removes constantly, 24/7, so those pollutants are kept at a more constant level. The skimmer removes the waste instead of letting it rot in the system. The skimmer's action is consistent and this can lead to a more stable system and less algae issues.

A skimmer also increases gas exchange.

You can (and should) also do water changes while employing a skimmer; it isn't either/or, though a skimmer can reduce the volume and frequency of WCs that are needed.