Skimmer for 40 gallon tank w/ sump [seeking recommendations]

[Robert Binz]

I’m planning a new system with a RedSea Reefer 170 w/ sump.

I have no idea where to begin looking with skimmers. I want one (1) appropriately sized for the tank; (2) quiet; (3) cheap—this just means I’m not going to buy a $500 skimmer. I’m willing to pay 1-300$ if that’s what it takes.

Also if y’all can think of specific factors I should be looking at in my research, please share!

 

[CubsFan]

I use this on my 40 breeder. It performs well and the price was right. It’s my second BM skimmer. I had a smaller one on another set up. The pumps have been fine for me and aren’t too loud. It looks like they have some newer products. I’d probably look into getting one with a sicce pump, but what I’ve got does a good job. https://www.marinedepot.com/bubble-magus-curve-5-in-sump-needle-wheel-protein-skimmer-w-bubble-plate

 

[RyansReef]

Following. I just started a 29 gallon with a 10 gallon sump so looking at similar sized skimmer. I am leaning to an AquaExcel EC15 which has a dc pump. It is rated for 132 but doesn't have the light, med, high bio-load type rating I have seen on others. I have this on my 75 gallon running for last year and it works very well and was cheaper than most others options that had ac pumps much less any with a dc pump. I am not sure if oversized is bad and would strip too much out as I would like to keep nitrates at around 5-10 for corals.

 

[fish farmer]

I have a reef octopus 110 on my 29 gallon, probably overkill, but I like it. I have it in a 20 gallon sump.

Reef Octopus Classic 110INT 4” Internal Protein Skimmer

Manufacturer Rated for tanks up to 100 gallons BRS recommended for tanks up to 75 gallons In sump skimmer. Powered by Aquatrance 1000 pump with an improved venturi design and pinwheel impeller. Built with high quality acrylic. Gate valve allows for more precise control of water level. 1/2"...

www.bulkreefsupply.com

 

[Peace River]

You may also want to consider a #reefoctopus skimmer. I have been using them for over 10 years and currently have 3 running on different tanks - I continue to be please with the performance.

 

[neoender25]

Aquamaxx WS-1 has worked great in my 29g+10 sump. Rated for 30-65g

 

[45ZoaGarden]

+1 for reef octo. They make top notch skimmers.

 

[Robert Binz]

Thanks guys! I guess I’ll research the reef octopus line

 

[X-37B]

I have a tunze 9410 standard on my 45 frag system and a 9410 dc on my 120. They both are set and forget. I can feed, stick my hands in the tank, blow off rocks, with no need to turn off.
Simplest skimmer cup to clean. Just lift it off with no need to turn off the pump.
Anti overflow too.

 

[BullyBee]

Off topic, but what kinda pump you using?

 

[Robert Binz]

I have a tunze 9410 standard on my 45 frag system and a 9410 dc on my 120. They both are set and forget. I can feed, stick my hands in the tank, blow off rocks, with no need to turn off.
Simplest skimmer cup to clean. Just lift it off with no need to turn off the pump.
Anti overflow too.

Oh shoot that’s amazing to hear. That’s exactly what I’m looking for! If you had to choose one of those, which is your favorite?

 

[X-37B]

The dc because it has a controller for the air. They really should be more popular. Its one piece of equipment I never worry about. I lift the cup off twice a week clean and put it back on
All of 5 minutes at most with no adjustment needed. I have the non dc on my 45 only because I found a used one for $140.
Optimum water level is 6.5".

 

[Robert Binz]

I have a tunze 9410 standard on my 45 frag system and a 9410 dc on my 120. They both are set and forget. I can feed, stick my hands in the tank, blow off rocks, with no need to turn off.
Simplest skimmer cup to clean. Just lift it off with no need to turn off the pump.
Anti overflow too.

Tunze Protein Skimmers

Bulk Reef Supply - Saltwater Aquarium Supplies for Reef Tanks

www.marinedepot.com

Is this the standard version?

 

[X-37B]

Off topic, but what kinda pump you using?

Tunze if your asking me.

 

[X-37B]

Tunze Protein Skimmers

Bulk Reef Supply - Saltwater Aquarium Supplies for Reef Tanks

www.marinedepot.com

Is this the standard version?

Yes the dc has a small controller and is around $400. I got mine on sale for the price of the standard.

 

[Anvy]

+1 for reef octo.

 

[CubsFan]

I haven’t used a tunze skimmer, but I use a tunze return on my 40 breeder and tunze power heads for my nano and to mix my saltwater. Tunze makes great stuff. Lots of good suggestions here.

 

[AdamNC]

If you can still find them, a Somatic 60S. Got one on my 40br and does a good job.

 

[45ZoaGarden]

I haven’t used a tunze skimmer, but I use a tunze return on my 40 breeder and tunze power heads for my nano and to mix my saltwater. Tunze makes great stuff. Lots of good suggestions here.

+1 they make great stuff. I have the 9004 on my 45g AIO. Reef octo skimmers in all tanks with a sump. The regal is a BEAST.

 

[ClearLife]

If your looking for super quiet and stable get Eshopps S-120