12 best sump protein skimmers
Sump protein skimmers are essential pieces of equipment used in marine and reef aquariums to help maintain water quality by removing organic compounds and proteins from the water. Here's what you need to know about sump protein skimmers:
Function: Sump protein skimmers, often referred to simply as "skimmers," work by introducing air bubbles into the water. As these bubbles rise through the water column, they create a foam or froth at the surface. Organic compounds and proteins in the water are attracted to the surface of the bubbles and adhere to the foam. This foam is then collected and removed from the aquarium, effectively removing impurities from the water.
Sump Installation: Sump protein skimmers are typically installed in the sump, a separate compartment located below the main aquarium. The skimmer is connected to a pump that draws water from the sump into the skimmer chamber, where the skimming process occurs.
Types of Skimmers: There are various types of protein skimmers available, including:
Needle Wheel Skimmers: These skimmers use a needle wheel impeller to generate fine bubbles, maximizing contact with the water and enhancing skimming efficiency.
Venturi Skimmers: Venturi skimmers use a venturi valve to create bubbles by injecting air into the water flow. They are known for their reliability and ease of maintenance.
Cone Skimmers: Cone skimmers feature a conical-shaped body, which allows for efficient foam production and collection. They are prized for their high performance.
HOB (Hang-On-Back) Skimmers: HOB skimmers are designed to hang on the back of the aquarium, making them suitable for setups without a sump. They draw water from the tank, skim it, and return it to the aquarium.
Sizing: Choosing the right-sized skimmer for your aquarium is crucial. Skimmers are rated based on the volume of water they can effectively process. It's recommended to select a skimmer rated for a tank slightly larger than your actual tank size for optimal performance.
Maintenance: Regular maintenance is essential to ensure that the skimmer operates efficiently. This includes cleaning the skimmer body, collection cup, and impeller regularly to prevent buildup of organic material.
Water Quality: Sump protein skimmers play a vital role in maintaining excellent water quality in marine and reef aquariums. By removing dissolved organic compounds, they help reduce nutrient levels, prevent algae growth, and promote a healthier environment for fish and corals.
Cost: The cost of sump protein skimmers varies depending on factors like brand, size, and features. Quality skimmers can be a bit pricey, but they are a worthwhile investment for maintaining a thriving marine or reef aquarium.
In summary, sump protein skimmers are crucial equipment for marine and reef aquarium enthusiasts.They effectively remove organic compounds and proteins from the water, helping to maintain optimal water quality and a healthy aquatic ecosystem. When selecting a skimmer, be sure to consider the size of your aquarium and choose a model that suits your specific needs and preferences.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best sump protein skimmers on the marketProduct description
The Coralife Super Skimmer 65G has a high-performance foam fractionator designed with a patented needle-wheel impeller, an aspirating venturi and is effective at removing dissolved organic compounds from water. The needle-wheel system creates a spiraling vortex of water and micro bubbles inside the reaction chamber where the bubbles attract fine proteins and organic compounds and deposit them in the collection cup. This unit is designed for aquariums up to 65 gallons, and adaptable for both hang-on aquarium mounting or in-sump setup.Large neck for efficient foam production and control
- Patented needle wheel aspiration system
- Wide neck collection cup with easy twist feature for effortless cleaning
- Dual injection inlets increase bubble/water contact time
- Bubble production diffuser to prevent the flow of micro-bubbles into main aquarium
- Can be used in sump or with hang on mounting bracket
- Refer user manual for troubleshooting steps
User questions & answers
Question: | Did you get the model just like the picture (Red and Yellow Box) or the newest model (blue and purple box |
Answer: | I received the blue and purple box. |
Question: | will this be ok on a 55gal tank |
Answer: | Yes, I am using that on my 55 gal tank, sometimes I even turn it off during the day time. |
Question: | I bought this skimmer - 65 gallon version about 6 months ago and now it is not working. Does this have any sort of warranty |
Answer: | I have all of the versions of the coralife super skimmers 65g, 125g, and 220g. I have found first off, they are good skimmers, they do need regular cleaning and maintenance, especially with salt buildup in the air line leading into the pump, salt builds up over time and slowly chokes off the air supply to the needle wheel impeller. I have found the the 65g does require cleaning a little more often than the other models. I hope this helps, clean out the pump, remove and scrub off the impeller being careful not to bend the needle wheel. |
Question: | hello , what is voltage 220 v or 110 v |
Answer: | It was purchased as a gift for use in USA so it is 120V check with manufacture for multi voltage use |
Product features
Coralife Super Protein Skimmer with Pump, 65 Gallon
The Coralife Super Skimmer 65G has a high-performance foam fractionator designed with a patented needle-wheel impeller, an aspirating venturi and is effective at removing dissolved organic compounds from water. The needle-wheel system creates a spiraling vortex of water and micro bubbles inside the reaction chamber where the bubbles attract fine proteins and organic compounds and deposit them in the collection cup. This unit is designed for aquariums up to 65 gallons, and adaptable for both hang-on aquarium mounting or in-sump setup.
Coralife Super Protein Skimmer with Pump, 125 Gallon
The Coralife 125G Super Skimmer is a high-performance foam fractionator designed with a patented needle-wheel impeller and aspirating venturi. An improved energy saving pump increases the performance of the skimmer without increasing power demand. The needle-wheel system creates a spiraling vortex of water and micro bubbles inside the reaction chamber where the bubbles attract fine proteins and organic compounds and deposit them in the collection cup. The result is a clean and healthy aquarium environment.
Coralife Super Protein Skimmer with Pump, 220 Gallon
The Coralife 220G Super Skimmer With Needle Wheel Water Pump Up To 220 Gallon Tank. Include An Easy Twist Collection Cup Water Level Adjustment Dial and Bubble Production Diffuser. Remove organics from the tank before they break down.
- The IOAOI protein skimmer is equipped with an LED controller. The operation and the status could been seen easily. The water flow of the pump could be adjusted as required. And there are 20 gears, the power consumption of which is from 4W to 23W.
- Patented needle shaped diversion plate helps to generate much richer bubbles. Better reaction. And it could prevent the bubbles/foam from returning, and could also provide long contact time between water and air, which makes the protein skimmer obtain better performance.
- 23W pinwheel DC water pump adopts advanced frequency conversion technology, high efficiency and energy saving. Ultra quiet. Multi-gear adjustment.
- Constructed of high-quality cast acrylic to guarantee long life. For in sump use only.
- Foot Print/Height: 9*6.9/20 in. Recommended sump water depth: 7" to 9".
User questions & answers
Question: | Are there any instructions on this thing? Need to know what the buttons on controller do |
Answer: | It will do fine for your 30 gallon now. But this skimmer is only rated for 65 gallons max, and probably not even that. Manufacturers almost always overrate their skimmers. |
Question: | Hello i have a 90 gallon reef tank, i plan on having heavy load in future. do i need 150 or 180? thanks |
Answer: | 5x7.5" |
Question: | Hi, i did not receive a operation instructions with my skimmer, could i get some information on how to make it work correctly |
Answer: | Yes....it will do great...you got to keep it in 7" of water in the sump. |
Question: | I purchased a 150 before I bought my tank was able to get a larger tank a 180 gal. will the 150 handle that load or do I need to change to the larger |
Answer: | the foot print is 4.25" x 7" x 17" High |
Product features
Note please
Most of the protein skimmers are equipped with alternating current "AC" pumps (the type of power that comes out of your wall outlet). The IOAOI Direct current “DC” pumps have several key advantages over traditional AC pumps. Most notably, you can adjust the rotational speed of the motor which controls the air and water flow rates into the skimmer as required. And it converts alternating current to 24V direct current, which would be safe to you and your marine organisms.
Product description
The Macro Aqua M-50 Hang-on Protein Skimmer is for up to 60 gallon aquariums (depends on stocking). This protein skimmer will effectively eliminate organic waste. The M-50 operates easily, where there will be no need to prime (just plug-and-play). The collection cup can be removed easily to dispose waste. This beautiful skimmer will surely please your tank.
- High quality protein skimmer for up to 60 gallon tank (depends on stocking)
- Small hang-on back skimmer; Water Flow: 238gph
- Effectively eliminates organic waste. Simply remove the collection cup to dispose tank waste
- Easy to install and operate. No priming required
- Needle-to-wheel impeller - increases air to water contact
User questions & answers
Question: | About how long is the intank part that go in the tank |
Answer: | I’d say it’s Approximately 7-8” deep down inside the tank total. |
Question: | How can I get the overflowing bubbles from the top to stop? I think I have both nobs on the power setting but it still bubbles up and out |
Answer: | Return it mine was working perfectly for about 3 months and then drained about 15 gallons out of my aquarium had to empty aquarium move it dry out all and replace carpet nightmare |
Question: | Can someone give me the total width of the intake and discharge on the back? i need it to fit into an area 4.75" wide |
Answer: | For a fluval edge 12g? I'm looking for the same thing. I've been looking for a year. Considering cutting off the glass top entirely. |
Question: | Does this put out much of a water flow I’m planning to put seahorses in a 5 gallon nano tank and they can’t take much water flow has to be for the qui |
Answer: | No it doesn't, but do not recommend for a 5 gal. Please don't place a seahorse in a 5 gallon. It should be 30 at the least |
Product features
Macro Aqua M-50
The Macro Aqua M-50 is one of the best protein skimmers for saltwater aquariums.
The Macro Aqua M-50 Hang-on Protein Skimmer is for up to 60 gallon aquariums (depends on stocking). This protein skimmer will effectively eliminate organic waste. The M-50 operates easily, where there will be no need to prime (just plug-and-play). The collection cup can be removed easily to dispose waste. This beautiful skimmer will surely please your tank.
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. |
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. |
- Adjustable DC pump speed
- For tanks up to 240 gallons
- Small foot print
- Cone shape design
- Collection cup drain with cap
User questions & answers
Question: | How do you connect the skimmer to the acquarium? Mine didn't come with any hoses |
Answer: | Vert much |
Question: | Would this work well for a 220 fish only tank? 4 to 6 large fish |
Answer: | Don’t know of any generic. Always use the brand name bags |
Question: | i have a 5" opening between tank and cabinet, will it fit by turning sideways? or is the diameter more than |
Answer: | Yes the GN bags will fit with your model. if you have any more questions please call us at 781-894-4040. |
Question: | I have a 100 gallon mix tank with a 30 gallon sump. Which model should I buy |
Answer: | These are both the same kind of filter but for different Miele vacuum models. |
Product features
USA Support
Our products come with unlimited lifetime support based in the U.S.A.
Simplicity
All of our products are vetted to be S.E.A.-worthy. That is simple • effective • affordable. We offer high-quality products that cost less than most of the leading brands.
Our Promise
It’s simple. We promise to be there when you need us.
Product description
Bubble-Magus skimmers are practical and highly efficient. These skimmers offer innovative features along with reliable pumps at an affordable price: which makes them a great value. The Curve 7 skimmer has all the right features to make a great skimmer. These features include: a needle wheel pump with a venture intake that produces just the right amount and size of air bubbles, a bubble plate to reduce the turbulence in the reaction chamber, a innovative `curve` skimmer body that allow the foam to smoothly rise to the collection cup, an air silencer to ensure quiet operation, a quick-release collection cup and skimmer body for easy cleaning, a collection cup drain to reduce maintenance frequency, and lastly, a compact footprint that allows easy installation.
- High performance pump included
- Tanks up to 140 gallons
- SP1000 internal pump
User questions & answers
Question: | What is the length of the warranty, i am considering this or the sca 302. they both will do great for my plans of running medium bio-load in a 100 gal |
Answer: | Be very attentive when you srat it.fill the can before otherwise your electric engine will be severely damaged... |
Question: | I see in the picture there is a red plug covering a hole near the pump. Is the so you can rotate the pump to that position |
Answer: | i ran this on a 30 gallon turtle tank which had a red eared slider (about 8") and 12 - 15 gold fish (snacks for turtle). it kept water nice and clear. |
Question: | Missing a red plug for the base. Can i order that part |
Answer: | Yes, it will filter 40 gallons. However, be sure to watch this filter for a while to ensure that it is properly functioning. Mine stopped sucking water, overheated, caught on fire, and almost burnt my house down. DO NOT PURCHASE THIS FILTER! |
Question: | Curve 5 specs state water level of 9.5"-11". Isn't this a bit high? Other skimmers (such as Reef Octopus) only require 8" minimum |
Answer: | No its way too small. I used it in a 30 gallon tank, cleaned every couple weeks and it over heated and broke. |
Product description
AquaMaxx NF-1 nano-skimmer has all the attributes to make it an awesome nano-skimmer! Great pump, great design, great materials, great craftsmanship, great efficiency and great performance! Heart of a Skimmer is the Pump All AquaMaxx skimmers feature modified high-quality Italian Sicce Pumps. While other skimmers may also use Sicce needlewheel pumps, AquaMaxx ‘Shark’ pumps go above and beyond. Each Sicce pump motor block is modified then fitted with a proprietary AquaMaxx needlewheel impeller to further enhance its performance. With the precise modifications and upgrades, performance is boosted much beyond that of a standard Sicce needlewheel pump. The upgraded AquaMaxx ‘Shark’ pump is capable of drawing significantly more air and chops it up to the optimum bubble size for maximum protein extraction. The pump and protein skimmer combinations deliver unprecedented performance and reliability. Accumulated protein and organics will be vigorously removed from your tank and your water quality will be much improved! Innovative Design AquaMaxx skimmers are computer engineered and outfitted with the latest filtration technology. AquaMaxx NF-1 skimmer features an advanced bubble chamber to efficiently mix air and water to extract the maximum amount of protein. Noise is minimized by the built-in air silencer as well as the silicone noise-dampeners on the magnetic mounts. Extensively tested outlet baffling system minimizes air bubbles from exiting the outlet. Unsurpassed Quality High-quality cell-cast acrylic is used throughout for maximum durability. Experienced craftsmen assemble each skimmer precisely to produce a top-notch product at very affordable prices. Features Modified and upgraded Italian Sicce Syncra Nano needlewheel pump Magnetic mount for easy installation and adjustment Ultra-quiet operation Efficient, durable and reliable Simple to set up and operate Cell-cast acrylic construction Compact foot print
- Magnetic Mount - Filtration Rating: up to 30 Gallons (light bioload) or 20 Gallons (heavy bioload)
- Footprint: 2-7/16" Deep x 4" Wide x 13-5/8" Tall. Pump included
- Pump power consumption: 1.6 watts, 120 Volt USA Plug
- Small and powerful Nano Protein Skimmer, Modified and upgraded Italian Sicce Syncra Nano needlewheel pump
User questions & answers
Question: | Does it come with 220 volt plug |
Answer: | Hello Melanie, than you for the question. There is not a set limit for how many you can link together. Essentially, as long as you are not exceeding the electrical ratings of the outlet or the switch that is being used to provide power, you can have as many as you want linked together. If you have any other questions, please reach out to us by following the link below. Our support number is located on the top right corner of the web page. When you call, please press option 4 and provide our Consumer Care Team with your personal ticket number 509351, so that we can resolve your issue promptly. We look forward to helping you. https://www.amazon.com/sp?_encoding=UTF8&asin=&isAmazonFulfilled=&isCBA=&marketplaceID=ATVPDKIKX0DER&orderID=&seller=A23REY5RU8UL5T&tab=&vasStoreID |
- Adjustable DC pump speed
- For tanks up to 120 gallons
- Cone shape design
- Collection cup drain with cap
- 3 year pro-rated warranty: 100% coverage first year 50% coverage second year 25% coverage third year
User questions & answers
Question: | has anyone had to build a stand for this skimmer |
Answer: | it fit under mine , yet the top kept coming off so we just stopped using it |
Question: | Does the 120DC Skimmer include a controller |
Answer: | Yes, the air pump is included! |
Question: | For the power supply, how many amps is it rated for |
Answer: | Yes, it will. The skimmer is designed to work with BioCube units; however, it includes a hanging clip that allows easy positioning for standard saltwater aquariums up to 32 gallons in size. |
Question: | How tall is it fully assembled? i have a total of 20 inches available |
Answer: | to be honest throw it into the garbage ours worked but when it started to bubble the top would come off allowing all that garbage back into the tank no matter the setting as long as there was bubbles it would come off with in a hour or two |
Product features
USA Support
Our products come with unlimited lifetime support based in the U.S.A.
Simplicity
All of our products are vetted to be S.E.A.-worthy. That is simple • effective • affordable. We offer high-quality products that cost less than most of the leading brands.
Our Promise
It’s simple. We promise to be there when you need us.
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
Product description
Footprint: 7.3" x 5.6" | Reaction Chamber: 5" | Height: 19" Skimmer Pump: EVair 400 80 GALLONS - Heavy Load 100 GALLONS - Medium Load 140 GALLONS - Light Load IMPRESSIVE PERFORMANCE - REMARKABLY SMALL FOOTPRINT Distinctive Turbulence Reducing Body Solid PVC & Acrylic Construction Bubble Dispersant Chamber Novel Pipeless Output Valve Efficient & Quiet Operation Disassembles Completely for Easy Cleaning & Maintenance In-Sump Installation Only The IceCap K1 130 is a remarkably compact skimmer that offers a new level of refined filtration for marine aquariums ranging from 80 to 140 gallons. All aspects of the skimmer were implemented to surpass many challenges other skimmer on the market miss out on. COMPACT & BUILT TO LAST Master crafted from robust PVC and high quality acrylic. All components are marine safe and refined in every aspect to provide the latest enhancements in foam fractionation and the highest in quality. The elegant “Beer Bottle" curve of the skimmer body naturally stabilizes the air and water mix as they transition upward within the reaction chamber. An impressively compact footprint makes it the ideal candidate for tight sump applications. Every aspect of the skimmer disassembles completely for easy service.
- The IceCap K1-130 is a remarkably compact skimmer that offers a new level of refined filtration for marine aquariums ranging from 80 to 140 gallons. All aspects of the skimmer were implemented to surpass many challenges other skimmers on the market miss out on.
- For aquariums up to: 140 gallons, light bio load; 100 gallons, medium bio load; and 80 gallons, heavy bio load.
- In-sump installation only. Recommended sump water height: 6" to 8". Footprint: 5.6" X 7.3", 19" tall.
- Includes EVair 400 skimmer pump
- Distinctive turbulence reducing body. Solid PVC & acrylic construction. Bubble dispersant chamber. Novel pipeless output valve.
User questions & answers
Question: | Is the pump noisy |
Answer: | You can use either 3/8 inch OD tubing which will fit inside outlet pipe or 1/2 ID tubing which will fit over outside of outlet. Both will work. Just note head height for this pump is only around 24 inches. but they are great pumps! |
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 |
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