Protein Skimmer Instructions

Protein skimmers are used to remove organic compounds from your aquarium's water. These compounds, if left unchecked, could develop into toxic nitrites in your tank. A good protein skimmer will process one tank of air and one tank of water an hour.

  1. Location of the Skimmer

    • Place your skimmer in the sump of your tank. This is the location where most of your collected compounds settle, and this is a good place to optimize the functionality of your skimmer.
      Adjust your skimmer so that it sticks out of the water by about an inch.
      This is known as the optimal water level, and this level should be maintained for your skimmer to achieve optimal foam production.

    Empty the Collection Cup

    • Grasp the protein skimmer with one hand, and remove the collection cup with the other hand.
      Remove any debris that has collected into the cup, and wash the cup with a clean cloth or sponge.
      Clean the area under the water as well. Waste that your skimmer picks up is toxic, so you want to remove it from your tank regularly. Place the cup back on top of the skimmer, and let it start to work again.

    Maintenance of the Skimmer

    • Clean the skimmer itself about once a month. Unplug the skimmer, and remove it from your tank. Dismantle it and take a clean cloth or sponge and clean the inside wall of the skimmer. Assemble your skimmer and set it back into your tank, making sure that you are still at the optimal water level.
      Proper care of your skimmer will ensure that you have a safe and healthy tank.