Skimmer Just Pulling Water

[Rdela568]

I just plugged in my skimmer into the tank I just started to begin the cycle and automatically it just started foaming like crazy and filling up in about 30 seconds but everything that is coming out is completely clear and looks like the water. I have no livestock in the tank currently. Does anyone know what is happening?

 

[Crabs McJones]

If it's a brand new skimmer they have a break in period where they'll go nuts. Sometimes lasts a couple days, sometimes lasts 2 weeks. just keep emptying the cup back into the tank and make sure you air adjustment valve is all the way open

 

[mta_morrow]

Is it new? First time wet?

 

[Burrito]

might not have anything to pull out of the water

 

[Rdela568]

Is it new? First time wet?

No I used it before and it worked fine but I took a break from the tank and started over and now it is just going crazy.

 

[Rdela568]

If it's a brand new skimmer they have a break in period where they'll go nuts. Sometimes lasts a couple days, sometimes lasts 2 weeks. just keep emptying the cup back into the tank and make sure you air adjustment valve is all the way open

I just have the overflow tube keep pumping it back.

 

[mta_morrow]

No I used it before and it worked fine but I took a break from the tank and started over and now it is just going crazy.

Hmmmmm. Personally I would open the air all the way and just let it drain right back into the tank.

Should settle down after a few days.

Also I would verify the recommended water level from the manufacturer.

 

[rkpetersen]

There are quite a few substances that can get into your water and make it foam like crazy for awhile. One of the worst is any kind of epoxy used for aquascaping. You can set your water level to the lowest and if that's not enough you can raise the skimmer off the bottom of the sump for awhile until it settles down. With excess foaming you can empty the cup back into the tank as mentioned although I prefer to remove it even if clear (to get the surface active agent, whatever it may be, out of the water) and add back fresh saltwater to compensate.