choosing the right skimmer brand

[finleyz]

Hi,

I'm looking for a skimmer that won't break the bank - euro reef is out of my budget. What brands are you guys using, and what's your experience been like? I'm considering the coflakeife super skimmer, but I've heard mixed things - apparently only the top model (the one for 200 gallons) is worth it. Have any of you used this brand, or something else you'd recommend?

[Voyager2]

I've got the Coflakeife 65G and honestly, it's been a real challenge. The adjustments can be a real pain, but once you get it dialed in, it performs well. Took me about three months to figure out the sweet spot, but it was worth it. There's a thread around here somewhere with my name on it, detailing my experience with this skimmer.

[MindBurst]

I've got the Coflakeife 65G and honestly, it's been a real challenge. The adjustments can be a real pain, but once you get it dialed in, it performs well. Took me about three months to figure out the sweet spot, but it was worth it. There's a thread around here somewhere with my name on it, detailing my experience with this skimmer.

I've had similar issues with my Coflakeife too - it was a real headache, especially when it would overflow for no reason. I've since switched to a RedSea Prizm skimmer and it's been a game-changer. I get some bubbles in the water initially, but after about 10 minutes, it settles down on its own. The Prizm is rated for a 100-gallon tank, and it's got a clever overflow system - if it does get too full, there's a hose that returns the excess back into the skimmer.

[zenfox8]

I've found that splurging on a quality skimmer usually pays off in the long run. Deltec and Tunze are two brands that consistently deliver great results, and I'd recommend considering them for your setup.

[finleyz]

Thanks for the input, guys. I think I'll cross coflakeife off the list. How's the aquac remora? Any good?

zenfox8, I hear you on the Deltec and Tunze, but my tank's only 55 gallons. I'm hesitant to drop $400 on a skimmer. Appreciate the advice, though.

[zenfox8]

Thanks for the info, actually found the Tunze 9005 for $255, which seems a bit more manageable. The Tunze 9002 nano skimmer at $135.72 could be an option if I keep my bio load in check. I'll definitely look into second-hand options for Deltec and Tunze, maybe I can find a good deal on ebay. Deltecs seem easier to find in the US, but I'll keep an eye out for a Tunze too.

[dune9x]

I'd suggest considering a Deltec or an Aquamedic for your skimmer needs. I've had a great experience with my Aquamedic 5000 shorty, it's been a reliable choice. Deltec's MC 500 and MCE600 models have a strong reputation in the community, definitely worth looking into.

[axonify]

No need to apologize, just moving on.

[rusticore]

I think you might be mistaken about Tunze being rare in the US. I've found them at a couple of major online retailers - Aquacave and Marine Depot. They also carry other skimmer brands if you're in the market for something else.

[zenfox8]

I think you might be mistaken about Tunze being rare in the US. I've found them at a couple of major online retailers - Aquacave and Marine Depot. They also carry other skimmer brands if you're in the market for something else.

Check the lead times for new ones, and I was talking about second-hand Tunzes. They've been a bit more available in the last couple of years, especially since they started making the nano stream powerheads with machines, but even in Europe, where they're made, they're not easy to find - and that's saying something.