Skimmer Size

[azreefr]

I asked this in the newbie forum and didn't get a response. Is it possible to have too big of a skimmer? I'm planning to get the aquamaxx cone 2 which is rated for 300+ gallons and use if for my new tank/sump which is about 120g. Are there any downsides to a bigger skimmer?

[Drae]

That rating on that Aquamaxx skimmer is way off. It'll skim a heavy 150 and a light 180 tops. I have the jns sk2 ( same exact skimmer) for a 100 gallon build.

[azreefr]

Thanks. I actually read one of your posts which made me move from a co1 to the co2. Just wondered if it was possible to go too big.

[Jamey1010]

Depends on the type of tank your setting up, if your thinking full blown sps you better go as big as you can afford.

Downsides do exist for they do remove beneficial elements from the water but I'm old school were skimmers are king

[azreefr]

I hope to eventually move to Sps when I have the time for the additional maintenance. But I'm trying to buy right equipment now. My biggest decision is on lighting. I want to go LED for the lower heat. Hopefully I can avoid a chiller.

[Drae]

Thanks. I actually read one of your posts which made me move from a co1 to the co2. Just wondered if it was possible to go too big.

It is possible to go too large but your good with a 6" diameter skimmer on a 120 gallon tank for sure. That model will skim a full blown sps tank no problem.

[azreefr]

Thanks Drae.

[GrandeAzul]

The short answer is yes. If the skimmer is too large for the system it will work well for a short time then it will not be able to create a foam.

[azreefr]

This is probably a stupid question but in that case wouldn't I just need to run it part time.

[Drae]

This is probably a stupid question but in that case wouldn't I just need to run it part time.

Your ph would be more stable running a skimmer full time among other reasons to run it full time.

[micielo719]

I am looking at purchasing the JNS co-2 skimmer and wanted to double check here first to make sure it was the right size. I have a 120g w/40b sump and I will end up making it a Lps/sps tank with some fish. I have done a lot of reading and some people say go with the co-3? Some also say go with the largest skimmer you can fit?? I am new to the hobby and just want to make sure I purchase the right skimmer only once. I just finished reading about 200 pages of skimmer info!!! my head is going in circles! LOL.. It may become a fully stocked tank one day but just want to make sure I make the right decision. Thanks very much for all your help.