Skimmer off manifold?

[LadyTang2]

Does anyone instead of having a dedicated skimmer pump, just use a manifold off return pump? The flow could be controlled and turned way down by a valve. Any reason not to do this? I dont read many people doing it (maybe because many skimmers are sold with pumps) but I dont see why it would be a bad idea? I've read that the gate valve can get clogged changing flow but a skimmer pump can just as easily get clogged right?

 

[Flippers4pups]

Does anyone instead of having a dedicated skimmer pump, just use a manifold off return pump? The flow could be controlled and turned way down by a valve. Any reason not to do this? I dont read many people doing it (maybe because many skimmers are sold with pumps) but I dont see why it would be a bad idea? I've read that the gate valve can get clogged changing flow but a skimmer pump can just as easily get clogged right?

You would still need a needle wheel to produce bubbles or use a beckett designed skimmer. With a Beckett you could use a manifold.

 

[jda]

Manifolds are not good for much and nearly nothing that requires consistency. Once you get a manifold all dialed in, you move a valve or add something and then everything else is all messed up and needs adjusted again. I would not run much off of a manifold except for maybe a UV sterilizer or GAC reactor where flow does not matter a ton and can have a wide variance.