Everyone favorite topic...looking for a new skimmer

[klwheat]

Ok, I know there are a ton of review threads...all kinds of them. But, I can't find exactly what I'm looking for, so I thought I'd start a new one.
So, my current skimmer just isn't doing the job. I'm starting to have some hair algae issues, I've cut back on feedings, my fuge is producing well. The skimmer I have is a SeaSide aquatics ES5. I've had it for a while now, but in doing some more research, seems it just isn't up to the task of my 90 gallon mixed reef with 30 gallon (or so) fuge.
Here's the one I'm looking at now. http://www.bulkreefsupply.com/reef-octopus-classic-160-internal-protein-skimmer.html
One issue, as always is space. I have 11.75x11.75 to work with at max.
Anyone have experience with this one? Other great suggestions that aren't ridiculous priced?
TIA!

[ismvel]

I purchased a Tunze Comline 9012 (http://www.marinedepot.com/Tunze_Comline_DOC_DC_Protein_Skimmer_9012_In_Sump_ Venturi_Needle_Wheel_Protein_Skimmers-Tunze-TZ790121-FIPSISNW-vi.html) for an upcoming build. A little overkill for my 78 – 80 gallon set up, but the next size down was rated for 60 gal or so. Reason I went with this particular skimmer is A) name B) reliabilty C) quiet and D) size. As my build will be an AIO, I needed something with a small footprint and at L 5.5 x W 4.3 x H 16.3 inches, it fits perfectly in that back chamber.

The information states that it can comfortably do 132 gal with pretty good bioload, which is around your capacity.

Unfortunately, the price just went up $75 from when I purchased mine last week, due to it now coming with a DC pump. AndI also got it while they had 10% off skimmer sale.

[klwheat]

Definitely a price jump there. Also not sure about the volume claim (up to 300 gallons?)
You'll have to let me know how it works for ya!

[klwheat]

The other one I'm looking at as well is the Aquamaxx ConeS CO-1. Any experience with either of these?

[12_Egg_Omelette]

I went from an es5 to a nyos and I'm very happy

[alton]

Sorry I am old school I use Aqua C Urchin Pro on my larger tank, and regular Urchins on my smaller tanks

[klwheat]

Which nyos did you get? What size system and how heavily stocked?

[klwheat]

Maybe this one also? A little more expensive, but slightly smaller footprint and good reviews.
http://www.bulkreefsupply.com/skimz-monzter-sm161-protein-skimmer.html

[Francis]

The other one I'm looking at as well is the Aquamaxx ConeS CO-1. Any experience with either of these?

I Have the Aquamaxx ConeS CO-3. This skimmer is worth every penny. Quiet and efficient. The bubble plates are well designed that streamlines the micro bubbles passing through resulting in a more efficient skimmate production. It comes with a sicce pump which is very quiet. I like it so much i order another Aquamaxx Q-2 for my cube.


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[klwheat]

So...I had narrowed it down to the Aquamaxx CO-1...but just didn't think it would work for my 90 gallon plus sump/fuge volume. The CO2 just wont fit in my setup well. Found the Reef Octopus classic 150int. it's a little bigger, and I'll have to rearrange a bit to fit it...but looks like it should work well. Ordered last Thursday and should be here this Thursday. Will post pics and a review once it arrives. Very glad to replace the "undersized" skimmer I currently have. On the other hand...I'll soon have a GREAT skimmer for 65 gallon or so for sale! :)

[klwheat]

ok...got the new reef octo installed and breaking in. TONS of bubbles, got it set at the right water level. Only issue I seem to be having thus far is that, when I've got it set right (I think) and it shuts off for feeding time, then kicks back on (10 min delay after the pump so the water level is right again) it always seems to go crazy and overflow. Hoping that's just a "still breaking in" issue. Definitely larger than my previous skimmer.
2794127942

[Justin]

Maybe this one also? A little more expensive, but slightly smaller footprint and good reviews.
http://www.bulkreefsupply.com/skimz-monzter-sm161-protein-skimmer.html

The only concern with the rating is that it goes from 132 to 317. Such a big gap in ranges. I suppose it depends on bio load

[Justin]

ok...got the new reef octo installed and breaking in. TONS of bubbles, got it set at the right water level. Only issue I seem to be having thus far is that, when I've got it set right (I think) and it shuts off for feeding time, then kicks back on (10 min delay after the pump so the water level is right again) it always seems to go crazy and overflow. Hoping that's just a "still breaking in" issue. Definitely larger than my previous skimmer.
2794127942

If you have it plugged into an Apex controller or some other one, you can program a delay in the skimmer coming back online for like 10 or 30 mins. Here is what my programming looks like for my skimmer:

Fallback ON
Set ON
If Outlet ReturnPump = OFF Then OFF
If Sw2 CLOSED Then OFF
Defer 001:00 Then ON
If FeedA 000 Then OFF
Defer 030:00 Then ON

[Justin]

I'm following along. I've been thinking that my Seaside Aquatics CS1 is a little underrated for my current bioload. Did you do any research on Recirc skimmers and if they are that much better over traditional skimmers?

[klwheat]

Thanks Justin. I have it plugged into my Apex and a 10 min delay. I may have to change it to longer but giving it a few to break in.