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Top Skimmer Picks: Hang In/On Tank Models

By Stan & Debbie Hauter, About.com

In/On Tank counter current protein skimmers were the first type of skimmers to appear in the saltwater aquarium hobby. They were simple devices which used an air pump driven airstone, the bubbles from which collected proteins and deposited them in a collection cup. These skimmers are the least expensive and easy to install and operate. With in-tank skimmers, there are no worries about wet floors.

Aqua Medic Midiflotor Protein Skimmer

Aqua Medic Midiflotor ProteinPriceGrabber
This is a compact, double chambered in-tank counter current unit that requires an air pump and lime wood air stone for operation, as well as a constant water level in the tank to maximize efficiency.

Lee's Counter Current Protein Skimmer

Lee's CC Protein Skimmer
The Lee's skimmer is a bare bones, easy to set up and maintain, inexpensive in-tank skimmer that comes preassembed and includes a limewood air stone. All that is needed is an air pump to get it running and start producing good quality foam. Available in three sizes for tanks up to 30, 60 or 90 gallons.

Red Sea Berlin Air-Lift Protein Skimmer

Berlin Air-Lift Protein Skimmer
The Berlin Air-Lift is an air pump driven, counter-current skimmer that can be mounted either in the tank or sump, and is a way to take advantage of Berlin technology at a greatly reduced price. Available in two sizes for tanks up to 60 or 90 gallons.

Turboflotor 1000 Multi

TurboFlotor Multi 1000 SkimmerPriceGrabber
Turboflotor 1000 Multi measures 7-1/2" x 15" x 21-1/4" high and includes a pump and fittings. This versatile unit can be used as a hang-on style or placed inside or outside of the sump. Only the water supply pump needs to be placed in the aquarium or sump. Two outflow boxes direct water back to the aquarium or sump. For aquariums up to 250 gallons.

Prizm Skimmers

Prizm SkimmerPriceGrabber
Compact size, powerful pump, and easy "hang-and-go" setup make it a great choice for the small-to-medium home aquarium. Features an 18-blade Turbo-Jet Air Impeller that quietly generates a constant stream of microbubbles in a homogeneous air/water mixture. Patented, 2-stage reaction chamber extends contact time while providing both co- and counter-current action, creating protein-rich, stable foam. Requires 2" of headroom for removable 17 oz. collection cup. Includes adjustable height surface skimmer, filtration media basket, and carbon. For larger aquariums, use the Prizm Pro Deluxe (13" x 20" high x 3-1/2" deep). Includes removable 40 oz. collection cup and optional drainage port.

Aqua Medic Turboflotor 1000 Blue Hang-On Skimmer

Turboflotor Blue 1000 SkimmerPriceGrabber
Great new skimmer design gives you one-pump, hang-on convenience. Use the versatile Turboflotor Blue 1000 as a hang-on unit or mount inside or outside of a filter sump. Patented water flow extends contact time within the reaction chamber and the powerful Aqua Medic needle wheel pump with venturi air intake optimizes air intake and bubble size to ensure high waste removal. Made of high quality acrylic. For aquariums up to 125 gallons. 3-3/4" x 7" x 18-1/2" high.
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AquaC Remora Protein Skimmer

PriceGrabber
This is a non-venturi skimmers that benefits from a spray-injection system. These hang-on-tank units are designed for systems without sumps.

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