Skimz SM-251 V Deltec SC2560

asylumdown · #1 11-30-2011, 02:30 AM

I know I know, another 'this skimmer or that skimmer' thread. However, I just finished reading the skimmer review posted by mat20040 (http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=80512) and it made me think.

I was originally planning on buying a Deltec SC2560 for my tank, but after reading that skimmer, I'm starting to think that maybe spending 2 grand when I can spend less than 1 for something that works as well is stupid.

The sump is already built, and the sump chamber was built expecting a small footprint skimmer (specifically the Deltec), so I can't switch to something that has an obnoxiously large pump sticking off the side of it.

I'm thinking a possible candidate instead would be the Skimz SM-251. Less than half the price, close to the same footprint. I can't find any reviews on this skimmer specifically (though plenty on other Skimz models which are largely positive). Anyone here use one? Know anything about it? It's less than half the price...

Tank will be almost 360 gallons of total water, but display will be around 275

Thanks!

Funky_Fish14 · #2 11-30-2011, 02:39 AM

Like you said... not an opinion based on that skimmer specifically, but just adding another positive opinion on skimz. I have an SM-121. The small footprint is impressive... still 'skimz like a boss'. Lol.

Cheers,

Chris

fishytime · #3 11-30-2011, 02:39 AM

my Girly is running one Adam......she is fairly happy with it......it has been a little finicky and tricky to dial in.....she has a model that doesnt yet have the new pinwheel that is supposed to improve things so????......the build quality looks about middle of the road.....the deltecs may not skim any better but I will wager that it will last longer.....I have never met anyone that was disappointed with their deltecs

asylumdown · #4 11-30-2011, 05:18 AM

Thanks Doug & Chris!

The price tag is very enticing... even if I had to replace it in 4 years, it would still be less money than the Deltec. hmmm, plenty to think about. Is the new pinwheel on the models being sold right now?

Funky_Fish14 · #5 11-30-2011, 06:14 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by asylumdown

Thanks Doug & Chris!

The price tag is very enticing... even if I had to replace it in 4 years, it would still be less money than the Deltec. hmmm, plenty to think about. Is the new pinwheel on the models being sold right now?

I guess I should mention.... I ran a Deltec before the skimz, too, but it was not the same model as you are talking about either, haha. I was incredibly happy with the deltec, and it was only a bit easier to set and forget than the skimz. The skimz is fairly well built in terms of the cup, body, and pump area... the valve that controls the output/water level could be a bit firmer. The lid on mine does not fit tight, (does not stay on when flipped upside-down, it moves around when you shift the cup around. Deltec lid was snug). The cup does not connect to the body quite as smoothly... (the angled connection flanges are a bit more chunky)...(like Doug said... the deltec feels like it would last longer)... but in terms of overall skimming... its kicking butt just fine.

I only changed skimmers cause the deltec was too big for my system and I had to downsize and figured I would try something else. The skimz is also WAY cheaper than deltec (mine was 1/3rd the cost)... very affordable and competitive performance.

Cheers,

Chris

lastlight · #6 11-30-2011, 06:16 AM

The Deltec has a shiny sticker on it. I figure if nobody's going to tackle the real issues here it's up to me.

Funky_Fish14 · #7 11-30-2011, 08:29 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by lastlight

The Deltec has a shiny sticker on it. I figure if nobody's going to tackle the real issues here it's up to me.

Good call Brett, you brought up a great issue with deltec actually!

The shiny sticker on mine fell off on day 2

asylumdown · #8 11-30-2011, 08:51 PM

stickers... pffft. When I start my skimmer company, my logo is going to be laser etched in to the plastic then powder coated with ground unicorn horns. I'm also going to fill my tank with angel's tears, which conveniently have a specific gravity of exactly 1.026.

lastlight · #9 11-30-2011, 09:13 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by asylumdown

stickers... pffft. When I start my skimmer company, my logo is going to be laser etched in to the plastic then powder coated with ground unicorn horns. I'm also going to fill my tank with angel's tears, which conveniently have a specific gravity of exactly 1.026.

Cleverness aside you still want the Deltec =)

asylumdown · #10 12-01-2011, 01:02 AM

Ah that's right you've got the TC 2560 don't you? They are pretty damn sexy I have to admit, do you love it?