Replace skimmer or buy replace parts??

[LeftFootedJedi]

Need feedback on this. Some background:

I have a 4.5yr old Reef octopus classic 152-s protein skimmer for my 90G tank & for the last 6-10 months it’s barely pulling any skim. I run it 24/7 & have replaced a few internal parts on the pump but now I’m wondering is my tank / feeding that dialed in or is the pump and/or skimmer at the end of it’s life?

Another thing to consider, the part highlighted below in blue (water intake??) broke a few years ago & i’ve superglued it 3-4x. It’s holding but I can’t find a replacement for that which adds to the dilemma.. how much longer will it hold?

In short, is 4-5 yrs the expected life cycle of the equipment, meaning bite the bullet ($450) or should I scour for replacement parts? If so, what is the highlighted part called? How much is it?

Similar to a car, it the skimmer is a total loss (60-70% total value to fix) I’m probably better off buying a new one.

 

[Blue Ring Octopus]

Is the body of the skimmer cracked or the part that goes to the skimmer pump?

 

[FUNGI]

super glue wont hold long....if its the intake, try epoxy OR Plastic Weld.....no such thing as a equipment "end of life" as long as it remains functional....

 

[FUNGI]

or if you know someone with a printer....3d print it....I assume you mean the volute is broken...

 

[LeftFootedJedi]

Is the body of the skimmer cracked or the part that goes to the skimmer pump?

The grey part that attaches to the air line & goes into the skimmer

 

[LeftFootedJedi]

super glue wont hold long....if its the intake, try epoxy OR Plastic Weld.....no such thing as a equipment "end of life" as long as it remains functional....

That said.. if the skim never even reaches the midpoint of the tower am I ‘dialed’ in? The fish & parameters have been steady for a few years now.

 

[FUNGI]

That said.. if the skim never even reaches the midpoint of the tower am I ‘dialed’ in? The fish & parameters have been steady for a few years now.

I think the in-sump skimmers have a water height requirement.....maybe the water height is out of whack....I dont have one as I have HOB skimmer.

 

[Uncle99]

It’s just a plastic tube wit bubbles in it.

If you can buy a new intake, that’s easiest and cheapest.

Something messed up in that part.

 

[LeftFootedJedi]

It’s just a plastic tube wit bubbles in it.

If you can buy a new intake, that’s easiest and cheapest.

Something messed up in that part.

Better question is what that is called.. the part that sticks out of the skimmer & connects to the white hose

 

[UncommonSense]

Better question is what that is called.. the part that sticks out of the skimmer & connects to the white hose

look up “venturi”!

 

[Blue Ring Octopus]

This

Replacement Inlet Venturi for AquaMaxx Protein Skimmers

If the Inlet Venturi of your AquaMaxx skimmer becomes damaged or worn out, you can now purchase a factory-direct replacement for sure fit and function. Available Inlet Venturis ConeS CO-1 Replacement Inlet Venturi (SKU: 232584) - Fits the AquaMaxx ConeS CO-1 In-Sump Protein Skimmer ConeS CO-2...

www.bulkreefsupply.com