Upgrading skimmer powerhead-Protein Skimmers-3reef Forums

lillys Grandad · 03-31-2008, 09:38 PM

I have the side mount tube type skimmer...motor went bye-bye.
Its the little ex-250....but in a 30 gallon tank is it benificial for me to replace with say a 550?

Heres a picture of the style I speak of...

GeejEx · 03-31-2008, 10:29 PM

Hi LG-

FYI I have a 29/30-ish tank and just bought the EX-550 for extra flow. It's big and pushes a LOT of water. If you want to go bigger than 250, try the 350 first.

target001 · 04-01-2008, 12:22 AM

i think if u buy a power head to suit that unit u will prolly over flow it

IMO id get a power head with the same GPH rating

on the other hand if u wanted to go with a larger powerhead id put a tap in the works so u can adjust the flow but of course that will restrict yer over all GPH coming out of the skimmer its self

IMHO i think u should get a power head that has the same GPH rating

sssnake · 04-01-2008, 03:10 AM

You should replace with the same type.

Tangster · 04-01-2008, 06:06 AM

Like snake mentioned the pumps on a skimmer need to push just a certain amount of water. If it where me I'd go back with the same pump or you will just over power the skimmer and all you will get is wet foam and wasted saltwater and a cup over fill .

lillys Grandad · 04-01-2008, 07:24 AM

Thank you folks...250 it is, it was working very well before the silence. : )
Im glad I asked.
3reef rocks