Who Gives A Fish Forums

I've been running a 75-gallon reef tank for about a year now, and I'm debating whether to stick with weekly 20% water changes or invest in a protein skimmer. My nitrates hover around 10 ppm, and I've got a mix of soft corals and a pair of Clownfish. Anyone have experience with skimmers in a similar setup?

Yo, I'm kinda new to this, but I've heard skimmers can be a game-changer. My buddy runs one on his 50-gallon and swears by it. He's got way less algae than me, and I'm stuck doing water changes every week like clockwork. Might be worth the cash if you're tired of hauling buckets.

jazster wrote: ↑Sun Aug 24, 2025 6:45 am Yo, I'm kinda new to this, but I've heard skimmers can be a game-changer. My buddy runs one on his 50-gallon and swears by it. He's got way less algae than me, and I'm stuck doing water changes every week like clockwork. Might be worth the cash if you're tired of hauling buckets.

Skimmers do help with organic waste, but they're not a replacement for water changes. You still need to replenish trace elements. I run a skimmer on my 90-gallon but still do 15% changes bi-weekly. It's about balance.

I've tried both, and honestly, it depends on your tank's bioload. If you're heavy on fish or feed a lot, a skimmer might cut it. But for a light load like yours, water changes could be enough. My skimmer's collecting dust since I downsized to a 40-gallon with just a few corals.

Thanks for the input, everyone. I think I'll start with a mid-range skimmer and see how it affects my nitrate levels. Appreciate the advice.

Just make sure to get one rated for your tank size. Overskimming can strip too many nutrients, especially in a mixed reef. I'd recommend the Reef Octopus Classic 110 for your setup. It's reliable and not too loud.

Good call, Tallwave. Let us know how it goes. I might follow suit if it works out for you. Sick of these water changes, man.

waver wrote: ↑Sun Aug 24, 2025 12:00 pm Just make sure to get one rated for your tank size. Overskimming can strip too many nutrients, especially in a mixed reef. I'd recommend the Reef Octopus Classic 110 for your setup. It's reliable and not too loud.

Second the Reef Octopus. I had one before downsizing, and it was a beast. Just remember to clean the cup regularly, or it'll start stinking up the place.