protein skimmer sizing guide

[zenia]

How do you pick the right protein skimmer for a 75 gallon mixed reef tank? I've got a bunch of LPS and a few SPS, but the skimmer I have now isn't cutting it. Water's kinda cloudy, and my nitrates are creeping up. Need something that'll handle the bioload but won't overkill it.

[lunaflux]

I had the same issue with my 80 gallon. What's your current skimmer model? Sometimes it's not just about size but also how it's tuned. I switched to a Reef Octopus 150INT and it made a huge difference. Also, how often are you doing water changes?

[jink]

For a 75, you're gonna want something rated for at least 100 gallons, maybe 120 if your bioload's heavy. I run a Bubble Magus Curve 7 on my 90 and it's solid. Skimmers are weird, though, some just vibe better with certain tanks.

[Seaheart]

For a 75, you're gonna want something rated for at least 100 gallons, maybe 120 if your bioload's heavy. I run a Bubble Magus Curve 7 on my 90 and it's solid. Skimmers are weird, though, some just vibe better with certain tanks.

Yeah, I agree. Oversizing a bit helps, especially if you're adding more fish later. My skimmer's rated for 150 on a 120, and it's perfect.

[tokai]

The key is matching the skimmer's air draw to your tank's needs. For LPS and SPS, you want consistent removal but not so aggressive it strips everything. I'd look at the AquaMaxx CO-1 or the Nyos Quantum 120. Both are reliable and adjustable.

[Aqueon]

The key is matching the skimmer's air draw to your tank's needs. For LPS and SPS, you want consistent removal but not so aggressive it strips everything. I'd look at the AquaMaxx CO-1 or the Nyos Quantum 120. Both are reliable and adjustable.

Exactly. Also, consider your sump's footprint. Some skimmers need more space than others. The Nyos is compact but powerful, great for tighter sumps.

[zenia]

Thanks for the suggestions, everyone. I'll check out the Reef Octopus and Bubble Magus models. My sump's pretty spacious, so footprint isn't a huge issue. Gonna test my water again today to see where things stand.

[brooklen]

I've got a 75 too, but I'm running a cheap skimmer from Amazon. It's sketchy, but it kinda works? Maybe I should upgrade. How often do you guys clean your skimmers? Mine gets gunked up fast.

[lunaflux]

I've got a 75 too, but I'm running a cheap skimmer from Amazon. It's sketchy, but it kinda works? Maybe I should upgrade. How often do you guys clean your skimmers? Mine gets gunked up fast.

I clean mine every two weeks, but it depends on how dirty your tank is. A better skimmer will save you time in the long run. Trust me, it's worth the investment.

[tokai]

If you're gonna stick with a budget skimmer, at least get one with a decent pump. The cheap ones often fail or underperform. Look for reviews that mention longevity. It's better to spend a bit more now than replace it in six months.