Thanks for reassuring me that disaster has not struck. I suppose I'd rather over react than under react.
I am familiar with the initial skimmer freak out with new socks, but I had last changed them on Monday. I also hadn't added any new stock, meds, etc, just food like normal. My takeaway on this is to keep my skimmer a little cleaner so that in the event of an overflow there will be a limited amount of crud getting into the tank.
My skimmer is in a chamber with baffles so the water level doesnt change.
I'll do a complete clean on the skimmer tomorrow and will definitely check the air intake, thanks for the pointer.
I can really see the advantage of a float switch, or a water sensor or what have you. If I end up getting a controller that will be something I'll add.
As for the socks, I have both felt and mesh. So far I agree that the mesh are significantly easier to clean. They also fit my sock holders better. I bought a pair of the vertex 300m from j&l, will be ordering some more.
Thanks all!