by Don Carner
Co-Current and Counter-Current Installation Tips
Last time we reviewed co-current and counter-current designs and a bit about their uses. Here I'd like to discuss their installation. Tricky how this leads to my closing remarks in the previous chapter regarding my favorite placement, sumps! However, before I go there let me recap my co-current installation recommendations:
- Place a co-current skimmer in a rear corner. This facilitates the airline from the air pump.
- As this model draws from below the waterlevel, place a small powerhead to create surface agitation. This assists in keeping dissolved organics and oils more in solution and available for removal by the foaming action of the skimmer.
- Install a drain plug in the collection cup. This eliminates soggy-carpet surprises, as overflowing is directed into an oversized container placed on the floor, behind the tank and stand.
Free Standing Installation
Next I should mention the "free-standing" or "stand alone" method of plumbing a skimmer. This is probably the least-used of all the installation options. This is due primarily to the fact that it is a "pressure" system not unlike that found when installing a canister filter.
Most skimmers that are intended for a sump location can also be utilized in a free-standing locale. Actually, some manufacturers specifically intend for their products to be "hard-plumbed" in this manner. Not too may hobbyists relish this arrangement as it requires a large footprint and needs special skills to install and balance. Tall tower skimmers require glued PVC fittings and a dedicated, high-velocity water pump to work to their potential. It is always good to use ball valves and quick-disconnecting PVC fittings to facilitate easy maintenance when installing these type units.
One other note: Use of a sump is almost mandatory for installation. Exiting the water up-hill to the aquarium may render the skimmer inoperable!
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