Skimmer choice for 225g

[rhody605]

I'm looking to get input for a skimmer for my build. I am working on a 225g display with 100g sump with second 40g frag tank.

Choices so far are:

Euro reef cs12-2. ($400 used)
rated 400g

Vertex in180.


Reef octopus nwb-250. $400 new

Bubble Magnus *BM-180-cs ($450 ish new)
Rated for 215g


I'm leaning toward the euro reef. I have heard good things and it is a massive skimmer. Always best to skimm more than less right?


Thoughts?

Thanks

[e46er]

I have a vertex in. 180 on my 120 with a 40 gal sump and it does pretty good but I have 1/2 the water u have and a small bioload
I would think this skimmer is too small for your setup

[mseepman]

I would be looking at the Reef Octo XP-3000 Cone. Good value, excellent warranty. Strong air-pull.

[gregzz4]

Others may disagree with my reasoning, but think of your's as a 340g system when shopping. That's 10% loss from your DT for rock etc, and your sump/frag added.

I agree a 180 won't cut it. Even a 280 would be undersized.
The nwb-250 doesn't list air, so I won't comment on it.
The cs12-2 may keep up if your system isn't heavily stocked, but I dont' see an air rating listed for it, so it's questionable.
The BM-180-cs may do the trick if you keep your stocking levels down, but may be undersized if you end up going full blown reef.

From what I've learned so far, any skimmer you choose that has low air input should have it's rating halved. The same is said of ones that don't list air flow ratings.
For example, I found a gently used skimmer rated up to 320g for my 110g system. I'm sure it's over-rated @ 320, but I think it can probably handle a heavily stocked 150g system.

Sorry I can't suggest any one specific model for ya, but I'd be inclined to pick one rated for up to at least 500g if you stay in the price range you've shown.

These are not suggestions, so don't buy them because of me. Just use them as examples of quality/price.

This is an example of what may do the job for a decent price
http://www.reefshops.com/bubble-magus-bm220-cs-cone-protein-skimmer.html

This an example of a good quality skimmer in that other price range that would handle your system in it's sleep
http://www.jlaquatics.com/product/vt-psa250/Vertex+Alpha+Cone+250+In-Sump+Protein+Skimmer+-+Up+to+350+Gallons.html

[jagermaier]

The Precision Marine Bullet 3 is rated for 400 gallons. It uses the buckett injection system so it's a real performer! I know because I own one. Not using it at the moment if your interested in buying it...

[rhody605]

Thanks for the great input!!

That BM 220-cs is a good price. I had seen it priced closer to $800. (at brs)


Has anybody tried those new reef octopus diablo series?