Protien skimmer customization

[TroyClark]

I bought an Aquatop skimmer. Never used a skimmer like this before and want to modify it to make if fit on my sump, I would like to add an extension tube so the pump sits lower. I want to have the pump in the sump and the skimmer hanging on the side so its more accessible. Will this cause a problem with an additional 4 inches of head height over what it would be if I installed as a hang on in the DT? Also, would like to replace the outlet tubes and sponges with vinyl tubing to direct the outflow into the next sump chamber. Will these modifications effect efficiency?

Thanks.

 

[laverda]

It looks like that skimmer is designed to be a HOB external skimmer so the changes should not affect it much. Keep the output hoses the same diameter, don't make them go higher and keep them as short as possible.

 

[joseserrano]

I think it would affect it significantly. It’s a skimmer pump not a return pump. Those inches will reduce effectiveness for sure.

 

[TroyClark]

I set up a test run with the hose as straight as I could using 5/8 id tube from skimmer to a 5/8 x 1/2 reducer to 1/2 id tubing attached to pump. Flow seems strong with both outlets running full. I have it in fresh water for now but will set it up with saltwater and give it a good test to check bubble size later. I want to add 2 ft tubes to outflow to send the water to the next chamber. Never made sense to me to have output in the same place as input.....

 

[laverda]

Your photo looks to be the opposite of what you describe the the text. As it is a HOB skimmer it should work great.

 

[John M White]

I set up a test run with the hose as straight as I could using 5/8 id tube from skimmer to a 5/8 x 1/2 reducer to 1/2 id tubing attached to pump. Flow seems strong with both outlets running full. I have it in fresh water for now but will set it up with saltwater and give it a good test to check bubble size later. I want to add 2 ft tubes to outflow to send the water to the next chamber. Never made sense to me to have output in the same place as input.....

 

[John M White]

I had this skimmer and I wish I'd spent more money and got a magus or octopus or something like that. It took forever for it to break in and when it did I modified it with a air stone. Good luck to you!