Protein skimmers

Protein skimmers are in our opinion a key component in any well-stocked marine aquarium and would suggest using one that is more than adequate for your aquariums volume. As the name implies they are capable of removing proteins and dyes from marine water, reducing the loading on biological filtration.

They work by the chamber being filled with a mixture of water and fine bubbles to which the pollutants stick. The foam then climbs up the neck and into the collection cup where it collapses into a dark coloured liquid. Treated water is drawn from the bottom of the skimmer and returned to the aquarium by gravity.

There are two types of protein skimmer, internal & external. Internal protein skimmers need clearance above the water level of the aquarium. These are better suited for smaller aquariums, as larger models can be difficult to disguise.

External Protein skimmers fall into two subcategories, Hang on & sump. Hang on as the name implies hang on the back or side of the aquarium. This is easy if your aquarium has no, or narrow reinforcing bars, although the Deltec models have extra long pipes so it can be accommodated on a wide range of aquariums

Protein skimmers that are situated in the sump normally larger more efficient units that are hidden under the aquarium. These often have a dedicated water pump to force the water through the unit whilst a separate pumps sucks in large quantities of air for the pollutants to stick to. Performance of all skimmers is enhanced when they are fed with unfiltered water, although a coarse pre-filter should be installed to remove large particles. Efficiency can be increased further by the addition of ozone to the air supply.

Tunze Nano skimmer A small internal protein skimmer available, suitable for aquariums with a maximum capacity of 40 gallons (200 litres). It works on the venturi principle it is efficient, yet exceptionally quiet. Measures just 5" X 2"X 13" high. Possibly the most efficient skimmer for under £100.
Red Sea Prizm Hang on protein skimmer, manufacturers recommended maximum aquarium size is 88 gallons (400 litres). We recommend it is only used on this size aquarium if it is lightly stocked. This skimmer offers good value for money and are ideal for using to convert Juwel aquariums to marine. They are a little noisy when compared with other protein skimmers. Available in standard version, or deluxe version with surface skimmer and media chamber. We no longer stock this model as it has been superceded, by more efficient skimmers.
V² Skimmers These versatile V²skimmers from TMC can be either sump, hang on or internally mounted. They are a well thought out skimmer that is quiet and are easy to use. In our opinion they are not quite as efficient as the Deltec models, but considering the price, they offer excellent value for money Six models in the range for aquariums up to 330 gallons (1500 litres) prices from around £80-£200, including feed pump.
Deltec MCE300 This is the smallest skimmer Deltec produce designed for hang on installation only. This is a good unit for some of the smaller Juwel aquariums. The MCE 300 produces 130 litres of air which by using the well proven Deltec 'air to tank volume ratio' makes the MCE 300 suitable for tanks up to 300 litres for normal stocking or 200 litres if heavily stocked. £149.95.
Deltec MCE600 This quiet, powerful & unobtrusive skimmer is again designed purely for hang on installation. It is ideal for fitting to larger Juwel aquariums, although can be fitted to other makes as it as wide intake and outlet pipe to clear reinforcing bars. This unit draws in a massive 300 litres of air per hour using Deltec's patented needle wheel impeller. Suitable for normally stocked aquariums up to 155 gallons (700 litres) Measures L 260mm W 180mm H 500mm, width included inlet and outlet pipes. Download instructions PDF 311kb
Deltec MC500 This skimmer is suitable for internal operation or it can be housed in a sump, provided water depth is greater than 125mm. Suitable for normally stocked aquariums up to 120 gallons (550 litres). This skimmer can be mounted internally on many Juwel aquariums, although some adaptation is required to the lid. Like all Deltec skimmers this unit is quiet and very efficient. This unit draws in 200 litres of air per hour and uses Deltec's needle wheel impeller Measures L 210mm W 90mm H 530mm (allowing for removal of the cup) Download instructions PDF 367kb
Deltec APF600 Deltec make a wide range of protein skimmers all of which are available to order. The APF600 suits most hobbyists needs and is kept in stock. It has a maximum capacity of 222 gallons (1000 litres) and is designed for use in a sump tank. This model also requires an additional pump of 175 g.p.h. (800 l.p.h.) to circulate the water through the skimmer. Download instructions PDF 772kb , covers all AP series skimmers