Introduction
In my previous chapters I discussed
the differing styles and features of the major groups of skimmers available
to the hobbyist, and included visuals and descriptions to illuminate my
points. This 5th and final chapter will follow that same format. The email
that has followed in the wake of these articles has been overwhelmingly
positive! I realize that this 5th and final installment has been a long
time coming. For that I apologize.... now let's get to it!
After reading, talking and emailing everyone under the sun, you are finally ready to take the plunge and install your brand new protein skimmer! Whether hang-on, free-standing or sump-mounted, all these installation options require some form of plumbing to get them "on-line". At first glance, simply sitting it on the floor next to the tank or hanging it on the back of the aquarium or placing in your sump, would seem an easy endeavor. Relish this: it's the easy part!
Pre-planning and thinking your installation through from beginning to end will eliminate many woes down the road. Running vinyl hose from your overflow box (I do NOT favor this option, by the way), or dropping a powerhead into the sump would appear to be the way to go, but what about maintenance? Ripping hoses and pumps away from each other is a chore and can be a real mess. Using the proper valves, connectors and tubing can create a skimming system that not only performs, but is a snap to service and/or maintain.
Now I'm not suggesting that everyone become a master plumber or learn the basics of hydrodynamics, but knowing of available fittings will most ease the task. Union, ]Tru-Union and Ball Valves are but a few of the required and necessary types of fittings that make life easier in the hobby. After all, we want to enjoy the tank and system we have created, not sop up overflowing skimmers or tear apart hoses to fix a clogged venturi valve, etc.
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