Proper Adjustment of the ASM G6 Protein Skimmer

Protein skimmers help maintain the health of a saltwater aquarium by using air bubbles to remove waste by-products. Proteins cling to the surface of the bubbles, which carry them to the surface. The ASM G6 protein skimmer is constructed of extruded PVC tubing and injection-molded plastic, and incorporates a needle-wheel-driven Sedra pump. Needle wheels chop water to create a fine stream of bubbles, which make for highly effective skimming. The ASM G6 is rated for large aquariums up to 1,200-gallon capacity. It stands 48 inches high and uses three pumps. To function optimally, the ASM G6 skimmer requires proper adjustment.

Things You'll Need

  • ASM G6 protein skimmer
  • Sump
  • Aquarium cabined, over 55-inches tall
  • 15-gallon plastic bucket
  • Two cups of table salt
  • Clean sponge
  • Long handled plastic aquarium tongs
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Instructions

    • 1

      Rinse the skimmer under warm running water to remove any oily residue from the manufacturing process.

    • 2

      Rinse your hands under warm water to remove any soap residue and natural body oils, both of which are detrimental in saltwater aquariums.

    • 3

      Place the skimmer in a clean, plastic 15-gallon bucket. Fill the bucket with warm water, and add two cups of table salt.

    • 4

      Use a clean sponge, and wash the skimmer to remove any oily film on the inside of the reaction chamber, as oils will prevent correct skimming. Use a long-handled plastic aquarium tong to push the sponge into the skimmer and to clean it thoroughly.

    • 5

      Remove the skimmer and give it a final rinse under a running tap.

    • 6

      Open the covers to the pump wells. Remove the needle wheels, and wash the insides of the wells with salt water. Rinse under warm running water, and reassemble the pumps.

    • 7

      Attach each pump to the body of the skimmer, and place it in the sump.

    • 8

      Ensure sufficient water is in the sump to cover the Sedra pumps, with an additional 2.5 to 3 inches of water above each.

    • 9

      Ensure that the pumps do not touch the walls of the sump, to prevent a vibrating sound.

    • 10

      Position the riser pipe at its lowest possible setting, and run the skimmer for at least six hours to allow it to produce skimmate, which is dirty foam.

    • 11

      Adjust the riser pipe until the skimmate is an inch from the top edge of the skimmer neck, which is visible within the collection cup.

    • 12

      Extend the riser pipe to obtain a wet skimmate, and lower the riser pipe to obtain a dry skimmate.