[reefburnaby]

Hi,

When an oily substance is added to your tank water (via frying, your hands and etc), the skimmer does not work as well because oily substance prevents the air bubbles from collecting the bad organic particles. Think of oil as a lubricant...it prevents the air bubble from grabbing hold of the particles. Its a bit more complicated than that...but you get the idea .... right ? Eventually, the oil evaporates...and it is back to normal.

Have you notice that when you place your hands in the tank...the skimmer stops working for an hour or two ? Same effect.

The oil can come from many sources, so it would be hard to isolate. Putting a air filter on your skimmer could help.

- Victor.

[ 11 February 2002: Message edited by: reefburnaby ]</p>