Time to clean the skimmer ????-Protein Skimmers-3reef Forums

sssnake · 03-21-2008, 06:00 AM

I got some algae on the out spout of my skimmer (Deltec).

I guess it's time I should clean out the skimmer completely?

Would a good rinse with vinegar/water solution do the job or is there something in the tank water I should be focusing on?

Thanks in advance.

amcarrig · 03-21-2008, 06:06 AM

That's pretty normal. It's kinda working like an algae scrubber. Just rinse and clean the skimmer well but expect it to not skim too well for the first few days after you clean it. You only need to use vinegar if there are calcium deposits that won't come off with just plain old water.

sssnake · 03-21-2008, 06:17 AM

So I guess I got a project for today.

Thanks amcarrig.

coral reefer · 03-21-2008, 07:08 AM

It's a good project though to the overall health of your livestock!!!

Tangster · 03-21-2008, 07:13 AM

Vinegar will do But if you get some Lime away or Muriatic acid it will dissolve the scale faster . I had to soak My Bullet last Fall. Plug the in and outlets and fill it up or a Bucket may do also and soak the pumps also is used ?

sssnake · 03-21-2008, 07:30 AM

Thanks all.

I'm going to do the white vinegar thing......what ratio vinegar/water is recommended? Can it be tap water or must it be RO/DI?

amcarrig · 03-21-2008, 08:10 AM

I tend to use undiluted vinegar but a 50/50 mix will work as well. Tap water is fine

reef_guru · 03-21-2008, 09:33 AM

with a regualar scheduled maintence you wouldnt have this problem

sssnake · 03-21-2008, 10:08 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by reef_guru

with a regualar scheduled maintence you wouldnt have this problem

So true.

Tangster · 03-21-2008, 01:45 PM

All my skimmers always crust up with carbonates if not then you have water issues . Like with hard water on a shower stall and faucets .. The Lime away and the CRS stuff works far better then anything like Vinegar But if you use Vinegar just get a gallon jug and use it straight and full strength.. I cleans my skimmer regularly but the regular soaking is a must ..
I have a 600.00 skimmer now because the guy said it was not working well after 4 yrs and he wanted a Deltec o his system , A CRS soak fixed the old Bullet right up.. Unless you clean them then they so gradulay loose they effectivness you rally don't notice it. Same for power heads and main pumps.. I clean my Dolphin impellers every yrs and seals replaced every two yrs.