Determining Pump for skimmer??

DRC Archive General Saltwater Discussion
1

So i just got a new protein skimmer body for killer cheap…here are the dimensions of my old skimmer body and new skimmer body:

OLD:
2.5" wide * 17" tall

NEW:
5" wide * 18" tall

on the old one i ran a rio 600 with a venturi on it…nothing special, but it worked and ive only had one problem in the past with it…

i know the rio 600 will not be strong enough to create foam in the new skimmer…already messed around with it a little although i was pretty sure it wasnt strong enough…

how can i determine was size pump i should buy to run this thing?? im willing to spend around $100-120 to get a good pump…

thanks in advance

2

My suggestion would be to look at skimmers that are similar in size and look at the pumps that are sold with them. The Sedra pumps are probably the best pumps for the money. There are better ones but you will pay more for them.

The sedra 3500 comes with the ASM G1X which has the following dimensions.

Body Size: 5 ½” Height: 22 ½” Foot Print: 8.5”X11” Pump: Sedra 3500

I believe Premium Aquatics is the only sponsor that stocks it.

3

the diameter is actually closer to 4.5 inches and it funnels into a 2 inch cone…if that matters any

4

Ive never seen any ill effects from having a needlewheel pump that is a little big for a skimmer but certainly you see the effects from having an underpowered pump. I wouldnt go nuts and use something as big as a Sedra5000 but i think a 3500 should be golden.