Roller Filter & Skimmer Size

[the_cros]

I am planning a new sump build in my basement to support two tanks. This build will include a roller filter and a new skimmer.

I currently have a RS-350 (~75g DT volume) upstairs that this new sump will be connected to. I will also be connecting it to a new ~150g display in the basement. I am planning on purchasing a 46” sump, so that will add about ~45g of volume.

My 2 part question is around skimmer size:

1. Should a skimmer be sized for the total display (225g) or the total system volume (270g)?
2. When using a roller filter, can you use a smaller skimmer and if so by how much?

The 75 will have a medium bioload and the larger display will have a heavy bioload.

Any help/guidance would be greatly appreciated

 

[lapin]

My 2 part question is around skimmer size:

Should a skimmer be sized for the total display (225g) or the total system volume (270g)?

Total system volume. However as you know bio-load has a lot to do with it. (SPS vs FOWLR)
Bigger ones: you can always turn it down or run it part time.
Smaller ones: you cant make it do more than it can do

When using a roller filter, can you use a smaller skimmer and if so by how much?

Sure its the same as with filter socks. If all the water passes thru a 50 micron mat, my guess would be you could reduce the skimmer by size by 25%

 

[the_cros]

Thanks for taking the time to reply.

I have been trying to decide between the RO Elite 150 or 200. My issue right now is that I’d like to buy the skimmer now for my current setup (RS350 ~90g) and use it later when my dream comes true (2nd Display and basement sump).

With the 25% reduction calculation (when using a roller filter) I would need a skimmer for:
Current: ~70g (90g - 22.5)
Dream: ~200g (270g - 67.5)

BRS shows the following stats;
RO Elite 150; 75 Heavy, 125 Med, 180 Light
RO Elite 200; 125 Heavy, 210 Med, 300 Light

If these stats are based on total volume, I think I would need to go with the Elite 200 to support the dream.

 

[CMMorgan]

Thanks for taking the time to reply.

I have been trying to decide between the RO Elite 150 or 200. My issue right now is that I’d like to buy the skimmer now for my current setup (RS350 ~90g) and use it later when my dream comes true (2nd Display and basement sump).

With the 25% reduction calculation (when using a roller filter) I would need a skimmer for:
Current: ~70g (90g - 22.5)
Dream: ~200g (270g - 67.5)

BRS shows the following stats;
RO Elite 150; 75 Heavy, 125 Med, 180 Light
RO Elite 200; 125 Heavy, 210 Med, 300 Light

If these stats are based on total volume, I think I would need to go with the Elite 200 to support the dream.

I would agree. You definitely want to size for volume, not just the DT.

 

[PeterC99]

I have the RO elite running on well stocked 90 gallon. Would recommend that you get the RO elite 200. You can always dial down the power. The 150 will not be enough for your two tanks.

 

[the_cros]

I have the RO elite running on well stocked 90 gallon. Would recommend that you get the RO elite 200. You can always dial down the power. The 150 will not be enough for your two tanks.

That was my worry. I guess I now have to decide how likely is it that my dream comes true

 

[PeterC99]

Life is short - live your dreams! Looking forward to reading your build thread! Who knows, maybe you will inspire others to implement a unique system like yours (including me).