Oldie But Goodie

[pbnj]

What a weird hobby.

After spending almost a year researching new skimmers, I ended-up buying a used Deltec AP851. I wasn't planning on it, but the deal was just too good to pass-up. This thing looks practically new.

I've heard all of the hype, but I've never actually seen a Deltec skimmer up close....the craftsmanship is just unreal.

[offroadodge]

Good snag PBNJ...if the skimmer i have now goes out thats the brand skimmer ill go with. They always seem to make realy nice skimmate. Cant wait to see some pics of it in action doing its job.

[chark]

Great purchase! Like to see some pictures of it in action. Also hearing a review would be good.

[+Hydro]

I'm not sure if it was exclusive to my deltec skimmer but it took weeks (maybe a month) for it to settle down in my tank, it seemed it had a mind of its own. I actually ran my ATO out of water and most of the water in my sump overnight a few times from accidentally wet skimming.

Still I look at it sometimes and the bubbles don't even extend up the next...a few hours later its making foam again...mind of its own. The amount of oxygen it adds to the water is unreal. My ORP is so high that its a problem actually.

[pbnj]

I'm not sure if it was exclusive to my deltec skimmer but it took weeks (maybe a month) for it to settle down in my tank, it seemed it had a mind of its own. I actually ran my ATO out of water and most of the water in my sump overnight a few times from accidentally wet skimming.

Still I look at it sometimes and the bubbles don't even extend up the next...a few hours later its making foam again...mind of its own. The amount of oxygen it adds to the water is unreal. My ORP is so high that its a problem actually.

I did some additional research after I bought this skimmer. If your Deltec skimmer is performing inconsistently, try the following:

1) Check the water-level in the skimmer by running it with the airline(s) completely closed. Just don't run the pump too long this way, as the impeller could work it's way up the shaft and get damaged.

2) Check the flow rate going into the skimmer as it might be too strong, i.e., strive for maximum contact time.

3) Make sure your salinity is 1.025 or above as skimmers will perform much better at this level.

These are all tips from the guys over at D-D.

Also, when you spend a lot of time with your hands in the tank, the skimmer will perform inconsistently until the oils & such from your hands are accounted for.

[fishypets]

That tip about the S.G. is true, I've experienced it first hand.

[+Hydro]

You know my salinty has been a little low and now that I've got it back around .026 is does seem to be consistent. Thanks for the info, very helpful.

[pbnj]

Anytime.