Best skimmer for a 215 system

[Jetdrvr]

I am currently running an ER 12-2 RC model. What do you all think would be the best higher end skimmer for a heavily stocked SPS dominated 215 gal system.

thanks

[curthendrix]

Typically options would be BM250, H&S, BK Supermarine 200, Deltec, etc...

[grego]

H&S

[bradleyj]

I run a AP702 Deltec on my 225g heavily stocked with 34 fish, and lots of sps and lps. You can't imagine the stuff it pulls out.



2 angels, 2 tangs, 1 rabbitfish and 1 trigger, 1 goby , 2 tamarin wrasses and 18 fairy wrasses, 2 Dispars, 4 Bartletts

[jeffbrig]

If you already have a 12-2 RC, why are you looking to buy an all new skimmer? If you want to get the most out of your current skimmer, call euro-reef, and upgrade the pumps to the new SPE-5 Eheim models. Guaranteed to be cheaper than buying any of the other models suggested.

I started off with a 12-2 RC with Sedra 5000s, then beta tested the PCX pumps for Euro-Reef, then ended up with their latest Eheim pumps, and I am VERY happy with these.

[GSMguy]

Originally posted by jeffbrig
If you already have a 12-2 RC, why are you looking to buy an all new skimmer? If you want to get the most out of your current skimmer, call euro-reef, and upgrade the pumps to the new SPE-5 Eheim models.

Big +1

no need to buy all that new acrylic when you can just add eheim pumps and have all the skimmate you want.

[checkinhawk]

+2 upgrade to the eheims

[chadfarmer]

i wouldnt upgrade you aready gave them a chance

i would look at the ATB or the KZ skimmer

the newer skimmers rock

[Jetdrvr]

I alredy looked into upgrading the pumps but cant. Chip at ER told me that to do it I would have to plug and redrill the acrylic for the new pumps. They are mounted horizontal not verticle like the newer ones.

[GSMguy]

Never mind about the upgrade, Go with a dual eheim H&S, the atb small or a BK 200.

just dont go for the KZ skimmer lots of problems and many people are forced to "upgrade" it....

[chadfarmer]

whats the probelms with the kz GSMguy

[GSMguy]

Pumps have problems being too close to the beckett and wont restart propperly without taking the pump off the skimmer turning it on and then putting it in the skimmer body,

from what i have read they take a long time to start skimming again after a feeding and even the Moderators on the Zeo forum are replacing the injector with better US made becketts. so imo the Eheim powered NW cones ATB makes are a better choice.

[chadfarmer]

atb is cheaper, yes and both are different

i own a kz and dont have any of the problems as everone else (after feeding it takes 30-45 mins to skim again so did my deltec, h&s and bubble king)

they are using moddified becketts not US becketts they are all the same just drilled a couple more holes

gqjeff is moddifing to see what he can get out of the cone

i am not trying to debate

lets just get the facts straight