Question About External Skimmers and Reactors

[Alex Crittenden]

Hey everyone,

This is a 2-part question. I have a Biocube 29 running, currently carbon and GFO running in a media bag in the sump and no skimmer.

First, I had the Biocube skimmer and was not a fan of it. It seemed to remove mediocre amounts of skimmate. It could be that I didn't tune it in right, but for the money it didn't seem to work that well. I know there are a number of skimmers that are supposed to be able to work with Biocubes and Nanos out there, and some are listed as external. With an external skimmer it seems like I should be able to run it to the stand, saving room in the sump area for other things. Any thoughts on if this would work/how to do this would be great. I have searched Youtube, and I see a lot of people cutting/drilling Biocubes, and I am just not willing to do that. If I could run a pump to it or something though, I would be down to give it a go. If this is possible suggestions on where to pull from and where to return would be great.

Second, I have carbon and GFO running in a media bag in the sump. I feel like reactors would be more efficient, and a better choice. Looking for advice on if I should try to run one in the Biocube 29, or if it's a waste of money and time.

Thanks.

 

[RamsReef]

Skimmer: No you can't do that. You need to control pressure (height) in and out of them.
Look for a hang on the back skimmer like reef octopus or eshops if you need one. Otherwise look at tunze options they have good reviews.

Reactor: Media is always more effective in a reactor, as you are exposing all the surface to the water and it doesn't get clumped.