What Skimmers Do and Why They Matter
A protein skimmer creates a column of tiny bubbles inside a reaction chamber. Dissolved organics — proteins, amino acids, fish waste compounds — are attracted to the surface of those bubbles. As the foam rises, it concentrates all that muck into a collection cup. The key thing: smaller bubbles = more surface area = better skimming.
Do You Need One?
- Coral tanks — Absolutely. Non-negotiable
- Heavily stocked fish-only — Yes
- Lightly stocked FOWLR — Probably, unless doing very frequent water changes
- Tiny nanos under 50L — Can get away without one if doing regular water changes
Types Worth Knowing
In-sump skimmers are the standard — most reefers use these. Hang-on-back (HOB) skimmers work for tanks without sumps; the Tunze 9004 and Reef Octopus BH series are decent for smaller setups. Recirculating skimmers give better contact time and are now standard in mid-range and premium models.
What to Buy in the UK
Budget (under £100): Bubble Magus Curve 5, Reef Octopus 110-S Mid-range (£100–£250): Deltec SC series, Reef Octopus Classic series, Royal Exclusiv Bubble King Mini Premium (£250+): Royal Exclusiv Bubble King Double Cone, Deltec SC 1456+
Sizing Tip
Whatever the manufacturer says a skimmer is rated for, halve it. Oversizing is always better than undersizing.
The Break-In Period
New skimmers go mental for the first 2–4 weeks — overflowing, producing watery rubbish, or doing nothing. The pump seals need to bed in and the reaction chamber needs to "season." This is completely normal.
Browse used skimmers and filtration from UK sellers — skimmers are mechanically simple, so a used one with a clean body and working pump performs identically to new.
What skimmer are you running and how has it been?
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