14 best reef protein skimmers
A reef protein skimmer is an essential piece of equipment used in marine and reef aquariums to help maintain water quality by removing organic compounds and waste materials from the water. These devices are also commonly referred to as foam fractionators or protein skimmers. Here's some information about reef protein skimmers:
Purpose: Reef protein skimmers are primarily designed to remove dissolved organic matter, proteins, and other organic compounds from the aquarium water. These substances can contribute to poor water quality, algae growth, and other issues if left unchecked.
How it Works: A protein skimmer operates by creating a column of fine air bubbles in a reaction chamber or column. As the bubbles rise, they attract and capture the dissolved organic molecules due to their electrostatic charge and surface tension.This creates a foam or "skimmate" at the top of the chamber, which is then removed from the aquarium. The skimmate contains the waste materials that would otherwise decompose in the tank.
Types: There are various types of protein skimmers available, including hang-on-back (HOB) skimmers, in-sump skimmers, and external skimmers. The choice of skimmer type depends on the size of your aquarium and your filtration needs.
Sizing: Choosing the right-sized protein skimmer for your aquarium is crucial. Skimmers are typically rated based on the tank's water volume, so it's important to select one that matches the size of your reef tank.
Maintenance: Regular maintenance is necessary to ensure the skimmer functions optimally. This includes cleaning the skimmer cup (where the skimmate collects), adjusting air and water flow rates, and occasionally cleaning or replacing components like air stones or impellers.
Benefits: Protein skimmers are highly effective at removing organic waste, which can help maintain stable water parameters in a reef aquarium. They also contribute to improved water clarity and reduce the risk of harmful algae blooms.
Considerations: It's important to place the protein skimmer correctly in your aquarium and adjust it properly to achieve the desired level of skimmate production. Additionally, skimmers may initially produce a lot of foam, which can settle down over time as the aquarium matures and stabilizes.
In summary, reef protein skimmers are valuable tools for maintaining water quality and promoting a healthy environment in marine and reef aquariums. Proper selection, placement, and maintenance of a protein skimmer are essential for achieving the best results in your aquarium hobby.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best reef protein skimmers on the market
Reef Octopus Classic 100-HOB Protein Skimmer
Reef Octopus
Product description
The Classic 100-HOB is a proverbial favorite amongst hang-on back skimmer users capable of filter
User questions & answers
| Question: | Does this one work well on a 75 gallon tank or do I need to go with the 1000 model |
| Answer: | Looks like you have to pry it off. But don’t know for sure |
| Question: | How wide is it, how much is the width and depth I need in the opening on top of my tank |
| Answer: | I don’t use bracket. I set it on top of my over hang filter cover. |
| Question: | If i have only 4 inches of space between back of tank and wall, will the reef octopus 100 hob fit |
| Answer: | I bought it for vacation use but being lazy, have been using it for the last 6 months or so continuously. Still working great. |
| Question: | Does anyone know the size of the air hose? I need to replace mine |
| Answer: | It doesn’t use batteries you have to charge it with the UBS cord That came with the automatic feeder |
Reef Octopus Classic 150SSS Protein Skimmer
Reef Octopus
Product description
The Reef Octopus Classic 150SSS Protein Skimmer supplies powerful filtration for aquariums up to 210 gallons where sump space may be limited. The Reef Octopus Classic 150SSS is constructed of high-quality acrylic that can be completely disassembled for cleaning. Equipped with the new Aquatrance pinwheel pump, it produces an ideal mix of water and air for optimum waste removal. A simple vented wedge valve output provides precision control and allows cleaned water to exit the skimmer below water for quiet operation.
- For aquariums up to 210 gallons
- Pump: Aquatrance 2000S
- Small Footprint: 7.3″ x 9.45″ | Body Diameter: 6″ | Height: 20.9″
- Installation: Sump
User questions & answers
| Question: | What is the Water draw rate of this skimmer. How much water does it process per hour |
| Answer: | 120v. 60hz. |
Reef Octopus Classic 110-INT Needle Wheel Protein Skimmer for Aquarium
TopDawg Pet Supply
Product description
Reef octopus pinwheel/needle wheel skimmers provide you with a high performance features in an easy to use package. Better foam production is provided by hailea otp pumps. New pinwheel impellers provide up to 100% improved performance. 4 inch cone-neck eases transition from bubbles into collection cup. Easy cleaning is provided by quick-release neck. Gate valve allows for easier water level adjustments. Designed for in sump use only.
- Coral vue octopus 4-inch needle wheel skimmer 100gal
- Reef octopus pinwheel/needle wheel skimmers provide you with a high performance features in an easy to use package
- New pinwheel impellers provide up to 100% improved performance
User questions & answers
| Question: | Will this work hang on aquarium? I don't have a sump |
| Answer: | Hello ER, No this needs to be in a sump and in about 8inch of water. There are some hang on the back skimmers though, just keep looking. |
| Question: | Will this fit a Waterbox 35.1 sump |
| Answer: | not too sure |
| Question: | model number is INT which is installed inside sump but photo is an EXT which is installed outside. Which one is it |
| Answer: | No. The photo is a INT. It is a Internal sump protein Skimmer. |
| Question: | How deep does the water have to be in the sump |
| Answer: | According to the enclosed directions: 180-200 mm/7-7.9 inches for the 110-INT 200-220 mm/7.9-8.7 inches for the 150-INT & 200 INT |
Reef Octopus eSsence S-130 Protein Skimmer
Octo
Product description
The Reef Octopus eSsence S-130 Protein Skimmer was designed for the modern day aquarist in mind. This remarkably compact in-sump protein skimmer is capable of skimming aquariums up to 160 gallons where sump space may be limited. Efficient Performance At the core of the skimmer we have the reliable and extremely efficient Reef Octopus Aquatrance 1500s pinwheel pump. Ease of Use Removal of the collection cup could not be more simple with the Twist & Lift connection which doubles as a detachable silencer. A precise 16 step water level adjustment dial takes the second guessing on your skimmers settings. Simple to Maintain Constructed of high-quality molded parts that completely disassembled for easy cleaning. No hard to manage screws here, the quick release tabs make access to the internal pump a breeze. Quiet Operation A unique 360 output disperses water back into the sump without turbulence providing less mess and not sound. The integrated silencer is 12% more quiet than the standard silencers. Internal model designed for in-sump use only. No feed pump required, skimmer draws water directly from sump. Small Footprint - BIG Performance RELIABLE Reef Octopus Aquatrance 1800s Skimmer Pump Dome Bubble Chamber for EXTENDED Dwell Time Up to 12% QUIETER with Integrated Removable Silencer Collar Disassembles Easily for Service & Cleaning 11 Watts of Quiet and Energy EFFICIENT Operation Latest Output Design for QUIET and SPLASH-FREE Outflow Twist & Lift Collection Cup for EASY Waste Maintenance 16 STEP OUTPUT Adjustment- No More Second Guessing your Setting Quick Release Tabs Makes Accessing the Pump a SIMPLE Task
- Water Height: 7 - 8in
User questions & answers
| Question: | Will this fit in a sump compartment measuring 7x |
| Answer: | I have mine turned sideways at the bottom of the tank just above rocks. It works fine. |
| Question: | I know it say recommended sump water height: 7 - 8 inches . my sump water height is 5-6 inches . would it work |
| Answer: | You can submerse the cord, but only to the point of the switch and plug-in. |
| Question: | Why do my skimmer overflow |
| Answer: | I recently was in the middle of a water change and the heater did not shut off. Ended up overheating and melting through the rubber suction cups. |
| Question: | Will this fit in a sump measuring 7x |
| Answer: | Yes, then it should clear once the water level is corrected. |
Reef Octopus BH90 Hang on Protein Skimmer
Reef Octopus
Product description
The Classic 90 skimmer is a totally new hang on skimmer, not like your common hang on design, it have a cylindrical main body and uses siphon to feed water in to the skimmer which reduces the load on the pump while increasing the air generated. Capable of skimming the top of the water surface avoiding the ugly oil buildup that can accumulate and hinder light penetration.
- 4" Round Body HOB Skimmer w/external AQ1000s
- Dim: 7.5" x 7.5" x 23.8"
- Rated up to 130gal
User questions & answers
| Question: | Hi, My 60gal is in the bedroom, is this skimmer silent |
| Answer: | The skimmer has a fizzing noise (but mind you have been running it only for 5-6 weeks, some people say it goes quieter afterwards). Not an expert on skimmers as this is my first so dont know really how it compares to other skimmers. There is a slight gurgling sound (from mixing water and air) but the fizzing is what i would call noise. Tank is in my living room so not a problem for me really. Hope this helps |
| Question: | will this work on a 24gal jbj nanocube |
| Answer: | This works very well on a 40 gallon so no reason I can see it would not work on a 24. Its a very good HOB skimmer. |
| Question: | Will this work on a 125 gal tank |
| Answer: | It's only rated for tanks up to 100 gal. You will need a larger skimmer. |
| Question: | Will this work on 75gal tank |
| Answer: | I have a 65g tank and it works perfectly fine. I think this is rated for up to 90g. |
Reef Octopus Classic 152-S Protein Skimmer
Reef Octopus
Product description
The Reef Octopus Classic 152-S is an in-sump protein skimmer capable of providing powerful filtration for aquariums up to 150 gallons where sump space may be limited. This Reef Octopus Classic Skimmer is constructed of high-quality cast acrylic that disassembles completely for cleaning. Its unique Super Cone "wine glass shape" body naturally stabilizes and concentrates the organic rich foam as it rises producing an enhanced foamation. Fully equipped with a Reef Octopus Aquatrance 1800s pinwheel pump to produce the perfect mix of water and air for optimum waste removal. Super Cone Body Size: 6 to 3.5in Footprint: 10.4in x 8.1in Neck Size: 3.15in Total Height: 20.7in Output Size: 40mm / 1.25in 80=150 gallons
- Classic 6" Compact Skimmer w/ AQ1800s
- Dim: 10.4" x 8.1" x 20.7"
- Rated up to 158gal
User questions & answers
| Question: | Does it come with a controller |
| Answer: | Hi, there is a small switch at the end of the device that is OFF(turn off)-G(motion sensor mode)-ON(always on), Hope this makes sense. |
| Question: | voltage and frequency |
| Answer: | No, charge anywhere, just plug into any charging source that accepts the connection, using huosehold ac just plud cord into your ac adapter. |
| Question: | Voltage and frequency please |
| Answer: | No power adapter is needed it charges by usb plug in and recharges to last up to one week depending on how often you come into are where it’s mounted. |
| Question: | If I have 120 tank and 40 gallon sump what size skimmer do I need? Less than 160 gallons but wanted ppls thoughts |
| Answer: | These are motion sensor lights, turns on when detected human motion within 10 feet in a dark environment, and automatically turns off after 20 seconds if no motion detected. |
Reef Octopus Regal Internal Protein Skimmer REGAL-200INT
Reef Octopus
Product description
Safe and Efficient 24V Power Solid Cast Acrylic Construction High Performance VarioS Skimmer Pump 5 Controllable Energy Saving Power Settings Detachable Controller with Waterproof Union Safety Float Switch 0-10v Input for 3rd Party Controller Integrated Memory Two different pause/feed modes that will shut off the pump for either 15 or 60 minute intervals. The new and innovative Reef Octopus Regal 200-INT in-sump protein skimmer supplies powerful filtration for aquariums up to 400 gallons where sump space is not limited. The Reef Octopus Regal 200-INT is constructed of high-quality cast acrylic that disassembles completely for cleaning. Its hybrid conical body naturally stabilizes and concentrates the organic rich foam as it rises. This Regal skimmer is quipped with a new generation Reef Octopus controllable Direct Current VarioS-4S pinwheel skimmer pump which are the latest in variable speed flow technology and allows for refined control, enhanced performance and efficiency. The vast majority of skimmer pumps available to hobbyist are alternating current "AC" pumps (the type of power that comes out of your wall outlet). Direct current pumps have several key advantages over traditional AC pumps. Most notably, you can control the rotational speed of the motor, thus electronically control air and water flow rates into the skimmer. Now the user can have the skimmer process more or less water just by the push of a button!!!
- For aquariums up to 400 gallons with a light filtration demand. For aquariums up to 300 gallons with a medium filtration demand. For aquariums up to 200 gallons with a high filtration demand
- Footprint: 14
- Reef Octopus 24V VarioS-4S Controllable Pinwheel Pump. Latest in DC controllable technology. Pump has 5 controllable energy efficient power settings
- Output Size: 40mm - Comes with metric to British adapter to 1.25” pvc
- Recommended Sump Water Depth: 7
User questions & answers
| Question: | Does this item ship from the USA |
| Answer: | Yes, and the recommended water depth is 7 - 8 inches |
Reef Octopus OCTO Regal 150 SSS Space Saver Protein Skimmer
Reef Octopus
Product description
The Reef Octopus OCTO Regal 150 SSS Space Saver Protein Skimmer supplies powerful filtration for aquariums up to 210 gallons where sump space may be limited. The Reef Octopus Regal 150-SSS is constructed of high-quality cast acrylic that disassembles completely for cleaning. Its hybrid conical body naturally stabilizes and concentrates the organic rich foam as it rises. This Regal 150 SSS Skimmer is equipped with a new generation Reef Octopus Controllable DC 2500S Pinwheel Pump which are, the latest in variable speed flow technology. It allows for refined control, enhanced performance and efficiency. The vast majority of skimmer pumps available to hobbyist are alternating current "AC" pumps (the type of power that comes out of your wall outlet). Direct current pumps have several key advantages over traditional AC pumps. Most notably, you can control the rotational speed of the motor, thus electronically control air and water flow rates into the skimmer. Now the user can have the skimmer process more or less water just by the push of a button.
- For aquariums up to 210 gallons with a light filtration demand. For aquariums up to 160 gallons with a medium filtration demand. For aquariums up to 100 gallons with a high filtration demand
- Small Footprint: 9" x 7.5", Body Diameter: 6", Height: 23.6"
- Reef Octopus Controllable DC 2500S Pinwheel Pump. Latest in DC controllable technology. Pump has 5 controllable energy efficient power settings
- Output Size: 40mm - Comes with metric to British adapter to 1.25” pvc ; Output Height: 9.1"
- Recommended Sump Water Depth: 7" to 8.5"
User questions & answers
| Question: | What is the voltage as I use 250v |
| Answer: | It will still work and you'll get a darker skim. You can also adjust the skimmer to increase the water level inside the skimmer if needed. |
| Question: | Does this skimmer come with the new varios-2 dc pump and controller? coralvue states many retailers have not updated your photos |
| Answer: | You might have the water level to high if can't adjust your water level then you need to lift the skimmer higher or dial it back start at 16 and work your way back from there |
Reef Octopus NS-80 Nano Protein Skimmer
Reef Octopus
Product description
Filtration Handling 25 gallon – Light Filtration Demand 15 gallon – Medium Filtration Demand 10 gallon – Heavy Filtration Demand Powered by: OTP 200s Pinwheel Pump Body: 2" Footprint: 4" x 2.4" Height: 11" Manufacturer Warranty 1 year warranty on pump and 1 year on skimmer body
User questions & answers
| Question: | Does it fit in a JBJ 24 Gallon with the lid on |
| Answer: | It does have little because they are 7 free not water base only polishes have no smells are water base. All our products are 100% Made in USA and they are Vegan never ever tested on furry friends |
| Question: | Will this fit in the center chamber on a fluval evo |
| Answer: | Dries very smooth, not rough at all! I'm in love with this nail polish!!! |
| Question: | how far over the top of tank does it stand |
| Answer: | At this time, our polishes are all 3-Free. |
| Question: | Is this skimmer quiet or loud |
| Answer: | This polish falls into our "Ultra Metallics" family. If you do a search for "ILNP Ultra Metallics" here on Amazon you'll see them all! |
Reef Octopus Classic 150INT Protein Skimmer
Reef Octopus
Product description
Reef Octopus Classic 150INT Protein Skimmer is a high-end skimmer that fits into constrained sump spaces. A member of the Reef Octopus Classic Series family, this compact skimmer provides efficient filtration for aquariums up to 150 gallons where sump space may be limited. As with every Reef Octopus protein skimmer, the Classic 150NT is constructed of high-quality cast acrylic and features an easy to adjust gate valve, a quick release neck for easy cup removal, cup drain, bubble diffuser, air shredding Aquatrance pinwheel pump and air silencer.
- In-sump protein skimmer for aquariums up to 150 gallons
- Aquatrance 2000 Pinwheel Pump - offers super efficiency and the very best in performance
- Bubble Diffusing Chamber and Full Cone Body that naturally reduce and stabilize the foam production; This means less turbulence in the neck area and more contact time for organics to rise and collect
- Turbulence reducing bubble plate
- Small Footprint: 12.4" x 8.7"; Body Diameter: 6"; Height: 22"
User questions & answers
| Question: | Does the skimmer have the name reef octopus on it because it doent show it on the picture |
| Answer: | 110v standard US plug |
| Question: | Is there a connection for a drain line on the collection cup? Thanks |
| Answer: | Our Regal 150sss just came from Coralvue last month. We double checked and yes it does have varios-2 DC Pump and controller |
| Question: | Why are there 2 ports on air chamber |
| Answer: | Yes it does. |
| Question: | What is the water level depth this skimmer needs to operate |
| Answer: | 9x9 maybe, but not 7x9, you might be able to squeeze it in there but it won't work well |
Reef Octopus Classic BH-2000 Protein Skimmer
Reef Octopus
Product description
The Reef Octopus Classic BH-2000 Protein Skimmer is a favorite hang-on back skimmer. Capable of filtering aquariums from 130 to 208 gallons, the Classic BH-2000 features an easy to install and operate design in which the pump is mounted inside the aquarium. To install, simply place the skimmer on the back of the aquarium, mount the pump in place, adjust the intake strainer and it's ready to skim. The Reef Octopus Classic BH-2000 is constructed of high-quality acrylic and equipped with a highly-efficient Aquatrance pinwheel pump, which produces an ideal mix of water and air for optimal waste removal.
- For aquariums up to 208 gallons
- Pump: Aquatrance 2000 Pinwheel
- Footprint: 10" X 4", 21" tall
- Installation: Hang-on
- Adjustable surface skimmer attachment
User questions & answers
| Question: | Description says pump is mounted inside the tank, photo and box show it external, which is it |
| Answer: | Yes this is just a stock picture by Amazon. Our skimmer has the reef octopus logo on it. It's 100 percent authentic |
| Question: | I have a 125 gallon saltwater tank and i had it for one day all day and night running.i woke up and it over floaded.how can i stop over flowing |
| Answer: | Yes there is a nipple to connect a drain line to the collection cup. You will have to provide a 3/8" I.D. hose and clamp |
| Question: | Is this the strongest on market or for model as.of |
| Answer: | There two but only one sud be open for the air To make Air bubble in side the Chamber but if you open both it will make alot of noise only one is Necessary to be open |
| Question: | i have a 125g tank, i have 71/2 inches between my tank and the wall, do ihave enough room to hang this in the back |
| Answer: | Roughly 6 inches |
Reef Octopus Classic 110 Space Saver Protein Skimmer NWB110SSS
Reef Octopus
Product description
Innovative and Affordable Filtration. The NEW sleek and compact Reef Octopus Classic 110 SS In-Sump Protein Skimmer supplies powerful filtration for aquariums up to 100 gallons and easily fits in most space limited installations. Can be completely disassembled for cleaning. The new Aquatrance pinwheel skimmer pump produces an ideal mix of water and air for optimum waste removal. Easy of control with its vented wedge valve output for precision control and quiet operation. Latest output design allows cleaned water to exit the skimmer below water for quiet operation. Also available in the larger NWB-150SSS model. Internal model designed for in-sump use only. No feed pump required, skimmer draws water directly from sump Filtration Handling - 100 Gallon – Light Filtration Demand | 80 Gallon – Medium Filtration Demand | 60 Gallon – Heavy Filtration Demand Techinical Specs Body Size: 5″ Footprint: 6.1″ x 7.87″ Neck Size: ″ Total Height: 19″ Output Size: 1.25” Note: Recommended Sump Water Depth: 7-8"" Pump Information Aquatrance 1000s Pinwheel Pump Wattage: 9w Air Draw: 420 lph / 15 SCFH* Water Draw: 350 lph / 92 GPH* *Air and water results will vary depending on aquarium setup Warranty - 2 year warranty on pump/1 year on rotor and 1 year on skimmer body
User questions & answers
| Question: | Does this product need the adapter from the AQ skimmer pump to the bubble skimming chamber? Mine did not come with one, but it seems to fit without it |
| Answer: | It depends on the size and biological load of your tank. Let the specifications guide you |
| Question: | Is there any way to make it more silent? It’s really loud from the white air tube |
| Answer: | I would not recommend the skimmer to anyone. I have it hanging on the front of a tank in the basement. Problem with it is that it overflows very easily. I have had to clean up so many spills as a result of this skimmer. It usually takes about 2-3 tries to get it going well. Once running, its great. Bit noisy, but does a great job. If you have power outages where the power twitches on/off, it will definitely overflow. Not a great design. |
Octo Reef Octopus Protein Skimmer Stand, ROP-SST1
Reef Octopus
Product description
The Reef Octopus skimmer Stand makes it easy to raise protein skimmers to ideal water levels. Provides an extremely solid platform for the skimmer to rest on. Adjust to 3 heights Footprint: 11"x7.5" | Height Adjustment: 3" / 3.8" / 4.5" Use with: NWB110, Diablo XS160, SRO/XP/SSS 1000int, SRO/XP 2000sss, 3000sss, XP1000sss, XP2000sss, POV1
- Is Discontinued By Manufacturer :
- Package Dimensions :
- Date First Available :
- Manufacturer :
- ASIN :
Reef Octopus Classic 110 Space Saver Protein Skimmer CLSC-110SS
CoralVue
Product description
The NEW sleek and compact Reef Octopus Classic 110 SS In-Sump Protein Skimmer supplies powerful filtration for aquariums up to 130 gallons and easily fits in most space limited installations. Can be completely disassembled for cleaning. The new Aquatrance pinwheel skimmer pump produces an ideal mix of water and air for optimum waste removal. Easy of control with its vented wedge valve output for precision control and quiet operation. Latest output design allows cleaned water to exit the skimmer below water for quiet operation. Internal model designed for in-sump use only. No feed pump required, skimmer draws water directly from sump.
- Classic 5" Compact Skimmer w/ AQ1000s
- Dim: 7.9" x 6.1" x 19.7"
- Rated up to 130gal
- Small Footprint - Big Performance
- Disassembles for Cleaning
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