View Full Version : Skimmer Selection 300 gallon Mixed Reef
JosephJ
08/20/2015, 07:00 PM
I am setting up a 300 gallon mixed reef and only have 27" under the stand so I'm limited on height. The skimmer/equipment section of the sump is quite large. (24" x 21") The total sump size is 5' x 2'. The height of the sump is 18" so I'm looking for something I can still get out of the sump if it fails. Any recommendations and shared experiences would be appreciated.
Thanks
Joe
ArmanS
08/20/2015, 09:50 PM
Hey Joe,
Few Questions for you,
#1 Is the tank going to be Low , Moderate, or Heavily Stocked?
#2 Budget
I'm biased in that when it comes to skimmer I have had nothing but the best success with Bubble King. I've had numerous of them so far, DC 180 RD3, Alpha 170, Alpha 200, Alpha 250, SM 300 and will get a SM 250 soon.
They make the best skimmers IMO, the pumps are quiet, efficient, and the new RD3 pump is the best skimmer pump on the market IMO. It makes adjustments so easy.
If you cannot afford the Bubble King line then I would look into a used Vertex Alpha 200 skimmer, those you can get for ~700 and will be a beast in a tank that size.
Vertex also makes great skimmers for the price, but I think if your on a budget you cannot beat the performances of an Alpha 200 skimmer.
DavidinGA
08/21/2015, 07:25 AM
My suggestion: SRO5000int
d-man
08/21/2015, 07:58 AM
SRO all the way for me. It's within budget, good quality, reliable pumps, and easy to maintain.
JosephJ
08/21/2015, 09:37 AM
With the SRO5000int the height is 24", the body is 10" diameter so once its in the sump I won't be able to take the body out. Do you see any issues with this? I can remove the pump since its external if it needs to be replaced which is a plus. Also with only 3" between the top of the skimmer and the top of my stand will I have a difficult time removing the skim cup for easy maintenance?
Thanks
BlackTip
08/21/2015, 09:58 AM
I have similar setup like yours, except my sump is 60X18X24 high. It is located under the stand. I have SRO-5000SS. For me, it is very difficult to to get the skimmer out. It is doable, but difficult. The clearance from the edge of the sump to the top of the stand is barely enough. I can get the skimmer out doing 3 different moves.
Measure very carefully, and make sure you have at least an additional 1" of clearance.
Been happy with our big Reef Octopus skimmers.
Have the DCS300 and also the Regal 300SSS.
Could get a smaller version of either :)
bernie lyons
08/21/2015, 12:50 PM
Might want to look into the new MTC MVX skimmer (webpage) . It was design for under the tank installations . Best build quality bar none and performs much like their ultra high end mazzei venturi skimmers.
Vinny Kreyling
08/22/2015, 08:40 AM
http://marinetechnical.com/page19.html
I can attest to their quality products.
Too bad they don't advertise anymore.
azjohnny
08/22/2015, 09:52 AM
After using Beckett and pinwheel skimmers I am sold on venturi skimmers, if for no other reason if the pump ever dies you can get a new pump from your LFS or Amazon
Life Reef or MTC
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