Problems with skimmer

stefanie · 08-27-2007, 06:33 PM

Hey guys-
We have a 55 gal (I think) Coralife skimmer on a 29 gallon tank. Periodically, it goes on strike and won't make bubbles. With really invasive cleaning, sometimes we can get it to "bubble up" again, and sometimes not. I think it has been almost a week since it last worked.... any ideas?
[we've got a biowheel running too]
-Thanks.

BaxterS80 · 08-27-2007, 09:08 PM

Hi Stefanie,
What configuration are you using, in sump or external?

Frizza · 08-28-2007, 05:42 AM

Try attaching a piece of air tubing to the inlet valve if you haven't already done so. I done this on mine and it helps to prevent build up of salt and if the tube gets dirty then its easy to replace.

stefanie · 08-28-2007, 06:43 PM

It is on the back of the tank... no sump. We have the tubing to let air in. It is actually the only thing that doesn't get cleaned on the skimmer... do you think this could be the problem?
Thanks!

roosterfish · 08-28-2007, 09:18 PM

I don't have much experiance with the coralifes, but if they have a bubble diffuser it could be gunked up. If it does have one maybe try replacing it?

reefboy23 · 08-28-2007, 09:42 PM

Sometimes upgrading to a stronger pump works well over the reccomended

BaxterS80 · 08-28-2007, 10:03 PM

good point, reefboy

Frizza · 08-29-2007, 05:52 AM

If the air inlet is clear then there should be enough injection that will produce the bubbles you are talking about. I agree with the pump size, there must be sufficient flow to get the desired results.
The only other thing I can think of is if the air valve adjuster is damaged, you can test this by twisting the knob and if the water level height doesn't move then this is the problem.