How to Select a Protein Skimmer

Many fish aquariums could benefit from protein skimmers. The skimmer device works to stop excessive proteins and other waste products from breaking down into ammonia, nitrate and other fish-killing chemicals. They also add oxygen to the water and improve the water quality. Not all protein skimmers are created equal though. There are plenty of important aspects to consider when selecting the right one for your aquatic wonderland.

Things You'll Need

  • Aquarium
  • Fish
  • Fish tank filter
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Instructions

    • 1

      Determine the amount of "crash" you want your protein skimmer to have. This is how hard the skimmer's bubbles are pushed into the tank water. The more crash the better. Venturi and Turbo style skimmers create the most crash.

    • 2

      Select the amount of "dwell time" (the length of time the bubbles remain in the skimmer chamber to do their cleaning work) you need in your tank. More dwell time equals a cleaner aquarium.

    • 3

      Select the type of protein skimmer placement you want or need. This is generally determined by your filter type, how big your tank is and how much open space you have inside. Positions include internal and external, freestanding and in-sump filter placement.

    • 4

      Decide how much work and time you want to invest in your protein skimmer. Air-driven models require the most maintenance as they are smallest and need replacement airstones frequently. Venturis will need extra valve cleaning. In general, the majority of your maintenance will be spent in cleaning and in emptying skimmer's waste.

    • 5

      Make your selection based on your budget. Usually the larger skimmers are priciest because they provide the best protein removal and they require the least amount of maintenance. The smartest choice is to go with the largest skimmer within your price range that will fit in your aquarium.