How do we choose the best skimmer?
WHAT IS A PROTEIN SKIMMER? - HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST SKIMMER?
Best Protein Skimmer Reviews
A review of the most popular saltwater protein skimmer brands available for reef aquariums:
As technology continues to improve, maintaining ideal conditions for our reef aquariums is becoming a bit easier. However, as aquarium equipment advances, the number of available options also increases. Having choices as a consumer is usually a good thing, but in the marine aquarium hobby, the sheer number of brands and models can sometimes be overwhelming—especially for new aquarists. Whether you’re buying your first protein skimmer or looking to upgrade your existing one, this article will help you sort through all the options and find the best skimmer brands for your reef aquarium.
First, let's cover some basics:
What is a protein skimmer?
A protein skimmer is a device that purifies water in a saltwater reef aquarium. Think of it as a fancy filtration system. Protein skimmers work through a process called foam fractionation, which essentially means they create a foam of tiny bubbles. Organic waste, such as urea, attaches to these bubbles and is carried to the collection cup, where it is removed from the system. Regular maintenance of this collection cup is necessary to keep the skimmer functioning effectively.
A protein skimmer is an incredible tool that combines thermodynamics and engineering. Many organic particles suspended in the water column cling to the surface of air bubbles created within the skimmer. These waste particles are gradually pushed toward the water’s surface and removed in the skimmer’s collection cup, helping maintain a cleaner, healthier aquatic environment.
Does Every Reef Aquarium Need a Protein Skimmer?
No, you don’t always need a protein skimmer, but they are generally a good investment. Just take a look at the brown, smelly gunk they remove from the water, and you’ll be convinced they do a lot of good.
How Does the Best Protein Skimmer Work?
In Other Words, How to Choose a Good Protein Skimmer
Size Rating
One of the most important factors in determining the best protein skimmer brand to choose is its size rating. Each skimmer is designed for a specific water volume based on how much waste it can remove. If you buy a protein skimmer that is too small for your aquarium, you may constantly struggle to keep nutrient levels low.
Keep in mind that marketing claims often highlight the positives, so consider purchasing a skimmer that is rated slightly higher than your tank size or one where your tank falls in the middle of its recommended range.
Price
There are plenty of options for protein skimmers — you could probably spend as much money as you want on one. So, ask yourself how much you're willing to spend... then do some research to find the best skimmer for your budget.
Design (how it works)
Each manufacturer seems to boast that their skimmer is highly efficient, produces tons of tiny bubbles, and removes a lot of waste. However, there are several different ways to achieve these results:
Air or Airstone:
Counter-current airstone skimmers are among the least expensive but also the least efficient due to noisy air pumps and the production of large bubbles. Their effectiveness depends on generating many small bubbles, which helps remove waste. They operate by pumping water downward against the upward flow of bubbles, slightly enhancing efficiency. While not the most effective option, they are still functional and commonly found in DIY plans for budget-friendly setups.
Venturi-operated:
A venturi is a valve designed to draw in air. Skimmer models utilizing venturi technology are often paired with powerful pumps to generate air bubbles and enhance skimmer performance.
Impeller Skimmers:
In this protein skimmer design, bubbles are pumped through a needle wheel or mesh wheel impeller, producing smaller bubbles that improve the skimmer’s efficiency. Rotor-driven models are often combined with other features, such as a venturi design.
Design (Where to Install It)
The next important design feature is determining where you will install the skimmer. The three main options are:
Internal – Works only if you have a sump.
HOB (Hang-On-Back) – Can be used with or without a sump.
External or Recirculating Skimmers – These are not attached to the aquarium. A pump draws water from the tank to the skimmer and then returns it.
