13 best aqua skimmers
An aqua skimmer, often referred to as a protein skimmer or foam fractionator, is a vital component used in marine and reef aquariums to maintain water quality. Its primary purpose is to remove organic compounds, proteins, and other pollutants from the water before they have a chance to break down and negatively impact the aquarium environment.
Key features and functions of an aqua skimmer include:
Protein Removal: Aqua skimmers primarily target proteins and organic compounds present in the water. Proteins, resulting from fish waste, uneaten food, and other organic matter, can degrade water quality if not effectively removed.
Air-Water Interaction: Aqua skimmers create a frothy mixture of air and water within a reaction chamber. This interaction causes organic compounds to adhere to the air bubbles, which then rise to the surface and are collected in a collection cup.
Collection Cup: The collection cup is a detachable component where the foam containing the organic waste accumulates.Regular emptying of the collection cup is necessary to prevent the re-release of waste back into the aquarium.
Adjustable Settings: Skimmers often have adjustable settings for air intake, water flow, and foam level to optimize their performance according to the specific needs of the aquarium.
Types of Skimmers:
- In-Sump Skimmers: Installed within the sump (a separate compartment of the aquarium filtration system), these skimmers are submerged and operate quietly.
- Hang-On-Back (HOB) Skimmers: These skimmers hang on the back of the aquarium and are ideal for tanks without a sump.
- External Skimmers: These skimmers are placed externally, typically in the filtration system, and are suitable for larger setups.
Size and Capacity: Aqua skimmers come in various sizes to accommodate different aquarium volumes. The size and capacity of the skimmer should match the volume of the aquarium and the bioload (number and size of fish) to effectively remove pollutants.
Maintenance: Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the skimmer and collection cup, is essential for optimal performance. This ensures that the skimmer continues to effectively remove waste from the water.
Aqua skimmers play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy aquatic environment by preventing the accumulation of harmful compounds and enhancing the overall water quality in aquariums, especially in marine and reef setups.
Below you can find our editor's choice of the best aqua skimmers on the marketProduct 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
Smart Skimmer Security by AutoAqua uses the uniquely-designed contactless optical sensor to prevent the protein skimmer from overflows. No moving parts to service or fail. Magnetically coupled sensor makes it super easy to install and adjust the desired level on the collection cup. No need to purchase new lids or modifications to the collection cup are needed for installation. As the level in the cup goes too high, Smart Skimmer Security will shut down the skimmer immediately to prevent your skimmer from overflowing. Auto time delay function prevents false alarm due to power outages.
- CV-SSS100 Auto time delay
- Max Power: 1100W for 110VAC / 2200W for 220VAC
- Max Mounting Thickness: 1/4 inch (6.4mm)
User questions & answers
Question: | Mine keeps having faulty alarms. Triggers for little or no reason. Any suggestions |
Answer: | Try and avoid bubbles and large film or residue |
Product description
The Macro Aqua M-60 Hang-on Protein Skimmer is for up to 120 gallon aquariums (depends on stocking). This protein skimmer will effectively eliminate organic waste. The M-60 operates easily. 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 120 gallon tank (depends on stocking)
- Big hang-on back filter; Water Flow: 320gph; Air Flow Rate: 80gph
- Effectively eliminates organic waste. Simply remove the collection cup to dispose tank waste
- Easy to install and operate
- Needle-to-wheel impeller - increases air to water contact
User questions & answers
Question: | v or 220v |
Answer: | 110v |
Question: | HI ,could you please tell me that what the dimension of 120 gallon aqurium please |
Answer: | There usually 6 feet long 20 inches wide and 24 inches tall |
Question: | How far away from the wall should the tank be ? how much room does it need |
Answer: | Roughly 7-9 inches to give enough space for the skimmer to also be separated from the wall by about an inch orso |
Question: | Has anyone had good luck with this skimmer? I like the style of this skimmer but have read mix reviews. Is it a bad skimmer or just operator error |
Answer: | Yes I had this model for about 2 years and it woks great, |
Product features
Macro Aqua M-60
The Macro Aqua M-60 is one of a kind.
Macro Aqua protein skimmers boast performance and easy installation. It is designed with simplicity in mind to satisfy the skimming needs of saltwater aquarium hobbyists. Included pump features a needle-wheel impeller that vigorously mixes air and water to create a flurry of waste-removing bubbles. Improves water quality and oxygen level in saltwater aquariums. Removable collection cup allows convenient skimmer maintenance and disposal of collected waste material. Adjustment knob fine-tunes water level within the protein skimmer reaction chamber for optimal performance. Quality acrylic construction. Recommended for 50 - 120 gallons aquarium. 300L of air draw with 11W of power used.
Product description
Versatile, easy-to-use filter!
Features:
- Versatile Up-Flow or Down-Flow* Installation Options
- Efficient DC Pump
- Great for just about any filter media: carbon, GFO, sponges, ceramic rings, etc…
- Convenient Magnetic Mount
- Easily Disassembles in Seconds
- Sleek, Unobtrusive Design
*for surface skimmer installation, we strongly recommend installing an ATO or topping off your aquarium daily.
Why Choose Flexi Surface Skimmer & Media Reactor?
The Flexi is super versatile and great for aquariums up to 50 gallons. With an efficient DC pump, the Flexi can operate in both down flow and up flow modes. In down flow mode, it is an effective surface skimmer** that helps to rid your aquarium of the oily surface scum. In up flow mode, the Flexi maximizes the efficiency any filter media by actively pushing water up through the media.
With a convenient magnet mount, the Flexi can be installed in seconds. It can also be easily disassembled in just seconds for maintenance and media changes.
**for surface skimmer installation, we strongly recommend installing an ATO or topping off your aquarium daily.
Model: FSS-100
Specifications:
- Power Input: 100-240VAC 50-60HZ
- Overflow Box Dimensions : 3.94”W x 2.17”D x 6.30”
- Max Volume of Media Chamber : 3.74” x 1.99” x 1.97” (approx. 200ml)
- DC Pump Flow rate: 74 gph (280lph)
- Max Mounting Thickness: 1/2”(12.7mm)
User questions & answers
Question: | Does this fit on aquariums with a lip |
Answer: | No. You need the Midsize model of the Innovative Marine Nuvoskim DC protein skimmer. |
Product description
Smart Skimmer Security uses the perfect designed contactless optical sensor to make sure no moving parts that will fizzle. The special magnetic designed sensor makes it very simple to install and to adjust to the desired level on the collection cup. No holes on the collection cup are needed for installation. Maintenance is incredibly easy. As the level in the cup goes too high, Smart Skimmer Security will close down the skimmer immediately to insure your skimmer won't overflow. Automatic time delay function prevents false alarm that caused from power outages.
Product description
Made of the select German limewood. The finest airstones for your DIY air driven protein skimmer.
- 4.6 x1.5 x 1.5cm
- For 4/6mm air line.
User questions & answers
Question: | How many in 1 order |
Answer: | I never ordered these, sorry! |
Product description
The PP 75 is an easy to use protein skimmer that plugs and plays once you install it on the back of an aquarium or sump. Water enters the protein skimmer column and flows through the biological chamber before returning to the aquarium. Bubble dwell time is increased by the counter-current flow in the skimmer column. Adjust the height of the collection cup to control foam quality. Includes pump. Contact your Seller for installation assistance.
- Dimensions: 7.75" x 3.00" x 17.00"
- Pump (included): Odyssea 250
- Size: 50G - 75G
- Setup: Hang on the Back, Clearance: 5.00" minimum
- No manual included. Contact Seller for diagram.
User questions & answers
Question: | I just got your 250 reefugium will this skimmer fit on the back of my ten gallon sps tank with the reefugium |
Answer: | No is just to big this is 2 times bigger them your 10gallon boo |
Question: | What pump would you recommend to upgrade the pp75 skimmer ? mine works great but i added a 40g sump and i want a little more performance |
Answer: | I would just ask the seller , he is very helpful and he has actually sent me replacements parts . |
Question: | What size tank good for |
Answer: | I have 2 on my 55 gal reef tank, i dont think you can to much. I would think on a 29gal or smaller 1 would be sufficient |
Question: | Are there instructions to this? I'm having trouble installing it |
Answer: | I didn't get any instructions either, but if you e-mail the seller he will send you detailed pictures on how to put it together. Seller was fast to respond |
Product description
The NEW AquaMaxx HOB-1.5 is an upgraded and more-powerful version of AquaMaxx`s best-selling HOB-1. With an enlarged bubble diffusor and reaction chamber, the new HOB-1.5 is able to fully harness the power of the Shark 1.0 pump to maximize foam production and protein extraction. The custom conical bubble diffusors help minimize the turbulence inside the reaction chamber and help to direct water linearly up toward the collection cup. More waste than ever is pulled out of your aquarium and into the easy-to-remove collection cup. AquaMaxx skimmers are computer-precision engineered and utilize the latest filtration technology to deliver the performance and value you are looking for in a protein skimmer. EASE OF USE AquaMaxx HOB-1.5 protein skimmers is easy to setup and maintain. Just move the collection cup up or down to adjust the foam level to wet or dry. Maintenance is simple. A removable collection cup makes cleaning easy. Plus, every AquaMaxx protein skimmer includes a drain fitting for hobbyists who want to setup a separate reservoir for skimmate. Water quality and consistency is crucial to the success of a marine aquarium. An AquaMaxx HOB Series I protein skimmer will help to ensure that success. COMPACT DESIGN AquaMaxx protein skimmers were designed from the ground up with the hobbyist in mind. AquaMaxx HOB Series I protein skimmers have the pump placed inside the skimmer itself to save space, reduce noise and improve efficiency. Each unit is precision-cut and made of polished cell-cast acrylic. PERFORMANCE AquaMaxx HOB-1.5 Skimmers feature high-quality Italian-made Sicce pumps. Each Sicce pump motor block is then modified and fitted with proprietary AquaMaxx needle wheel impellers. With the precise modifications and upgrades, performance is boosted much beyond that of a stock pump. The upgraded AquaMaxx ‘Shark’ pump is capable of drawing in significantly more air and chops them up to the optimum bubble
- Dimensions: L 7.5 x W 3.5 x H 17 Inch
- Minimum tank height 10-7/8"
- Requires approximately 4" of clearance to remove collection cup.
- Fits aquarium rims up to 3/4" thick.
User questions & answers
Question: | Will it fit in the back chamber of a biocube 32 gallon |
Answer: | I can't tell you that for sure but this is a bit much for that tank. They make a smaller version of this. I have this on a 75. |
Question: | Anyone figure out the bubbles issues? I can't get them to stop |
Answer: | As Tom Campbell said, get a 1/4 inch Barb Valve from Home Depot used for drip irrigation and zip tie it to an inch of the yellow hose you have to cut off. You can then regulate the airflow just like every other protein skimmer ever made. Horrible inexcusable design flaw. Valve costs less than 2 bucks. Also look into the output bubble filter thing they sell as an option. The first time I turned this thing on was a catastrophe. |
Question: | How do u connect the collection drain pipe intoe xternal drain |
Answer: | The lid for the right side of the skimmer has a air hose and silencer for the Venturi and on the lid it has a corner missing. That corner would be turned where the overflow pipe can slide in to the chamber. And it’s not a cup drain, it’s purely an overflow so if the cup isn’t changed the skimmate won’t run in the floor, it will overflow back in to the skimmer. |
Question: | Will this unit fit if you have a canopy top or does it sit back far enough to clear the canopy |
Answer: | What do you mean by canopy top? If you mean one with hinges that goes opens toward the back of the tank, the skimmer is at 90 degrees so it would be close. You also have to account for the plumbing going into the tank. I have a biocube 32 and it does not work with the lid. If you have more questions or this doesn’t help PM me on IG @ bhmcubereefer |
Product description
This Biopellet Reactor is optimum in reducing No3 and PO4. The special external design for NP Biopellet Reactor saves the space in aquarium. Adequate volume of NP reducing bio pellets are included in the package.
- High quality external biopellet reactor. Nitrate phosphate removal
- Perfect equipment for coral tanks
- Easy installation and maintenance
- Comes with 200ml NP Pellets (replace or add new biopellets every 6 months)
- Compact design that saves space in an aquarium
User questions & answers
Question: | Will this support a 50 gallon |
Answer: | Absolutely |
Question: | How many gallons is this skimmer rated for |
Answer: | 10-20 |
Question: | Can this be used in a fresh water planted aquarium |
Answer: | Idk Probably not 100% sure I'd think it would Just probably need a biopellet designed for freshwater but idk y they'd be different A biopellet reactor works by giving a carbon source for bacteria to consume along with the nitrates in the water so theoretically yes it should work as long as there is adequate movement in the pellets and they dont stagnate |
Product description
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.
- Effective addition to saltwater or reef aquarium filtration
- Patented needle wheel system creates a spiraling vortex of water to remove fine proteins and organic compounds from the aquarium water
- Highly effective at removing dissolved organic compounds from saltwater aquariums
- Wide neck collection cup with easy twist Feature for effortless cleaning
- Bubble production diffuser to prevent the flow of micro-bubbles into main Aquarium
- Dual injection inlets increase Bubble/ water contact time
- Can be used in sump Or with hang on mounting bracket
- Use for Saltwater Aquariums only
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.
Product description
Get all the features of a $200 ATO for just $119.99
Features:
- World’s smallest dual-sensor ATO
- Two layers overfill protection
- Intelligent QST programming
- Secondary optical sensor
- Super precise water level control
- Super easy installation; plug-and-play
- No programming or adjustments required
- Works in complete darkness
Why Choose Duetto ATO ?
With huge features jammed in a tiny package, the Duetto is the perfect ATO for your aquarium. XPAqua’s proprietary dual-optical sensor packs two precise level sensors in one incredibly small package. In addition to keeping your water level constant, the two sensors also work in concert with the intelligent QST programming to help prevent overfilling.
All the installation parts are included and a magnetic coupling allows you to easily mount or adjust the dual-sensor. Installation takes just seconds so you can spend less time working on your aquarium and spend more time enjoying your aquarium. The Duetto offers you the best ATO protection and value!
Model: DATO-200P
Specifications:
- Power Input : 100~240VAC 50-60HZ
- DC Pump Max. Head : 6.5ft (200cm)
- DC Pump Flow Rate : 74 gph (280lph)
- ATO Sensor Max glass mounting thickness : 1/2” (12.7mm)
- the Duetto is the perfect ATO for your aquarium
User questions & answers
Question: | What is the size of the tubing (id/od) that is included |
Answer: | 3/16 " |
Question: | Does the pump stop if it runs for to long? If so how long will it run until it turns off |
Answer: | Where do I place the sensor in a 32 gal red sea max 130D? Doesn't make sense to place in sump as the water level there fluctuates depending on how much filter media is there (Red sea mechanical black sponge, 100g bag of red sea reef spec carbon, piece cut to size of "polyfilter" then a handful of filter floss on very top. I emailed mfg. they're not sure 100%, posted on Reef2Reef and someone said place sensor in the "return pump chamber". |
Question: | I just installed mine and I thought the blue sensor was supposed to glow. Mine is not. Is this normal |
Answer: | It should glow blue when everything is normal. No light at all is a problem. Unless its not topping off the tank. Check your connections too |
Question: | How high can it be put on my tank |
Answer: | If you mean how high above the floor, the supplied output tubing will reach about 5-6 feet above the pump. Within the tank you can magnetically mount the sensor as high as the glass goes. |
Product description
The Penn Plax Aquarium Fish Net is a “must have” addition to any home aquarium. The 4 inch finish net is made of fine nylon and will not hurt the fish in your tank. The Aqua-Blue color of the fish net blends in with the water so even the speediest fish will get scooped up with ease. This multi-use aquarium tool is also wonderful for cleaning out light debris from the tank. Simply skim the top of the water and remove any debris that is floating around. The handle is covered in vinyl with adds to the strength and length of this fish net. The ultra durable design of the aquarium scooping net means you will have a trusty fish net for many years to come without having to worry about it breaking or bending.
- Aquarium fish net is safe for all fish. Fine nylon net lining is designed with their safety in mind. The 4 inch net is a great size for many different size fish and aquariums.
- Aqua-Blue Quick Net blends in water to help catch those crafty, quick fish that make a hobby out of avoiding other nets that are easily seen in the water.
- Great for cleaning out debris from the tank as well. You can easily skim the surface and remove light debris from the water.
- Handle is covered in vinyl adding to strength and length of the 13 inch long fish net, so you can catch the fish much easier. Net measures .40"D x 4.15"W x 13"H.
- Durable construction means it will last for many years without bending or breaking. This versatile net is a must have for all home aquariums!
User questions & answers
Question: | how deep is the net |
Answer: | But how deep is very small? |
Question: | is the mesh fine enough to pick up dirt and debris |
Answer: | I have used it to skim the surface of an outdoor pond and it works well. I think it would work fine filtering dirt and debris but it is not made for heavy duty work. Filtering aquarium gravel would be fine but digging in dirt would probably be too rough. |
Question: | is it a good size to use for goldfish crackers |
Answer: | Yes. However, some debris may become logged in the small holes in the netting, so be careful to clean thoroughly and have fun. |
Question: | Will this work for catching newborn fry |
Answer: | Hey Dumb Student, We think for that purpose you'd be better off with our brine shrimp nets, which have a much finer mesh netting and will do a better job catching those little guys. We make two different sizes, the item numbers are BN3 for the 3" net and BN4 for the 4" version. Good luck with your fry! |
Product features
Penn Plax Quick Aquarium Net
Each net is constructed from Penn-Plax’s exclusive Quick Mesh netting which is strong, durable, and safe for nearly all aquarium fish. The two piece braided handle provides durability and strength and provides you with reliable operation for years to come.
The net is made from high quality, ultra reliable materials with your fish's health and safety in mind.
Vinyl Covered - Durable Design
Penn-Plax Quick Nets are designed to provide years of reliable operation - handle is covered in vinyl adding to the net's strength.
Quick Mesh Netting
Our exclusive Quick Mesh netting is designed with the health of your fish in mind. This net is appropriate for almost every type of aquarium fish.
Braided Construction
The two part braided handle provides reliable operation without bending or distorting in any way. It’s the only net you’ll ever need.
Product description
The new and improved rio plus aqua pumps and power heads provide versatile water pump system designed with high efficiency and reliability at lower cost. Designed with next generation magnetic-rotor technology, the rio plus aqua pumps and power heads offer the best high-performance solution in the aquarium industry. The largest and most powerful models provide excellent performance within wet or dry filters and in venturi protein skimmers when high pressure and flow rates are needed. Reliable and quiet, rio plus aqua pumps and power heads do not use oil to operate so they cannot contaminate the aquatic environment. A full range of rio plus aqua pumps and power heads, designed to work in a variety of aquatic environments, gives hobbyists superior selection with competitive price.
- Fully Submersible
- Energy Efficient With High Flow Rates
- For Fresh Or Saltwater Aquariums.Clean the impeller, shaft, impeller well cover and air intake elbows with a vinegar water solution
- Protein Skimmer Pump
User questions & answers
Question: | Can I use this for hydroponics |
Answer: | No me los medí por que se veían tan falsos que los devolví inmediatamente. |
Question: | also pump for a fountain- the hose on the fountain is 7/16 inches wide- will that correctly plug over the upper top spiget the water pumps out of |
Answer: | No |
Question: | is the flow rate adjustable |
Answer: | No |
Question: | how big of a skimmer can this power? i have a marineland 300 gallon skimmer body |
Answer: | Suede |
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