What is a Protein Skimmer? How do I get the right one? A beginner’s guide to aquarium filtration

Hang-on-back protein skimmer? In-tank protein skimmer? In-sump protein skimmer? So MANY options...how do you choose which skimmer for your saltwater tank? Here's your 5-Minute Guide to Protein Skimmers to help you out!

The fun begins! Follow along while we setup two different types of saltwater tanks that you can do right along with us. Here's your guide to setup a 40gal reef tank or 45gal All-In-One saltwater aquarium.

*Legal Stuff*
The content contained in this video is general information on the topic and should not be relied upon as your sole source of information or safety advice for this project or topic. Each product or situation is different and has its own concerns related to successful completion and safety that must be fully researched by the individual considering the project or product.
The purpose and content of this video is to provide general information regarding the products and their applications as presented in the video. Aquatic sales solutions, inc. And its officers, directors, employees and agents disclaim all express or implied warranties, in any way, related to the products and their application as presented in this video, make no representation or warranty regarding the products and the application as presented in this video and shall not be liable for any direct or indirect losses or damages of any type, including but not limited to punitive damages, or from personal injury or death resulting from or in any manner related to the video, and the products in and contents of the video. The viewer expressly agrees that aquatic sales solutions, inc. And its officers, directors, employees and agents shall not be liable for any damages or losses related to the products in and content of the video and hereby agrees to hold the foregoing harmless from any such losses or damages.

[mfrost]

Just started cycle on my new 40 gal AIO aquatop. So much good info in this series
Thanks !

[mrfishman]

Thanks to your series I’m going to turn my 40 gallon into a reef aquarium. Is the skimmer the only filtration you used for this tank ? Looks like a great tool for keeping a healthy tank

[fransdehaan]

I just bought the 9004. There is alittle plug in tool for the motor. When used the 9004 cleans the water surface to

[opethmike]

Ryan seems like a pretty awesome dude, and I would like to have a beer with him.

[Mulkxican]

What filtration did y'all use on this 40gal? Just the skimmer?

[adrianekizianbarton]

What's the biggest tank you would use this particular model for? Would I need a different model for a 55g or 75g?

[timmytbets]

Hello, just starting my first 40 gallon breeder tank. Is the protein skimmer the only filter/pump that is used in this guide? I went to my local fish shop and they recommended me to use a canister filter. Thank you in advance and love the guides.

[johnchambers]

What is best for a 53 gallon saltwater aquarium the AquaEl OptiSet 240 ltr. I like the 9004 but I'd like your advice please

[anthonyl]

I dont like how my ghost skimmer for my IM tank is making a lot of micro bubbles in the tank and it gets everywhere i did put it in the tank not too long ago but its still there.

[Mr.ReanuKeeves]

Is this only for "Reef" aquariums or can I use it on freshwater tanks too?

[mradams]

Do you clean the skimmers in regular sink water or clean it in saltwater only?
Thanks

[crowndcrusader]

Hey I know this might be an odd question, but whats a good protein skimmer replacement for the redsea max E 170? I certainly think it’s a decent skimmer! but the only problem is I struggle cleaning and removing it every 6 months to clean the pump and the body of the skimmer, and I can’t open the body to clean the inside of it due to the design. so I was wondering if there was a different skimmer for the E 170 which could fit in the back sump and of course that’s a lot easier to clean? I’ve been looking at the Tunze
Comline Skimmer 9012 DC and I was wondering if that one could fit in the back sump on the redsea max E 170 if it won’t please give me suggestions?

[andrewwoolhouse]

I have a similar in tank type skimmer. Both skimmer and tank has been running for a week now doing the same cycle as you have. My skimmer is filling my tank with lots of micro bubbles from the return pipe. Any idea why this is? Thanks

[samiam]

The proper adjustment can be even more challenging because foam fractionization is a simple process they all do. Some are ruined by design of way too much flow. The efficiency is terrible then as dirty water in and dirty water out with very little skim off per pass.

[DOOMBRINGER-vfex]

can I also use this for non salt water aquarium?

[TheBobby]

That was easy. Thank You. Good Blood flow to you.

[Jenny_thebeaglemom]

I’m seeing on some channels that you don’t need a skimmer? They aren’t saying how often they do water changes without one…

[Grohealthheirlooms]

Do you need a protein skimmer for a soft and lps coral system or will a refugium be enough for this setup?

[megadeth]

Awesome technology...awsm. is there a swivel-head Powerhead made by any one ? Nice if would be the cordless type option also ! If there is I would like to order 16 for starters if correct size !

[johnwolfe]

Upgrading the sump on a Red Sea, can you use any one you like or just the Red Sea Model and it plumbing? Also what is the pricing for that item? Thanks in advance and this is an awesome series!!