Can someone explain why my skimmer overflows?

Discussion in 'Protein Skimmers' started by Ballgame, Mar 30, 2014.

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  1. Ballgame

    Ballgame Millepora

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    I have cyno algea and added Chemiclean.
    Took Purigen out and turned UV off. Left pumps on as per instructions. Did worn that might need to adjust skimmer because over flow.
    I added in the Chemi and almost right away skimmer starts filling up. And fast! I caught it in time. But it's also the 2nd time it's overflowed.
    So what I'm asking is why? Does medicine change the chemistry of tank which activates the skimmer? Skimmer is dialed in well and running about 4 months. I want to learn so I can becareful moving forward.

    Thanks
     
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  3. mdbostwick

    mdbostwick Vlamingii Tang

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    Did the Chemiclean raise the water level at all? That is the only thing I can think of that would effect the skimmer.
     
  4. civiccars2003

    civiccars2003 Great Blue Whale

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    It depletes oxygen I believe hence the overflow.
     
  5. Todd_Sails

    Todd_Sails Giant Squid

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    Wow on some of those answers! Wow!

    What does a skimmer skim? Dissolved organic proteins mainly, and DOC's?
    Is is 'skim', or is it just water without the bubbles?

    There are many compounds that 'skim' out ahen added, of cause the skimmer to go nuts.

    Here's an excellent article on skimming by RHF:
    http://www.reefkeeping.com/issues/2006-08/rhf/index.php
     
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  6. civiccars2003

    civiccars2003 Great Blue Whale

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  7. Ballgame

    Ballgame Millepora

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    Thanks everyone. Assumed it had something to do with adding chemicals. But but not being a chemist couldn't understand why/how.
    Amazing too because it was less than a cap full of meds and 5 minutes to change the chemistry inside tank.
    Last time it overflowed was right after a water change. I left skimmer on for change. Thought that as long as water doesn't lower below skimmer intake id be good. Nope.
    I'm learning as I go and you guys are extremely helpful. Thanks!
    I'm making a video of my treatment process. Ill post once done.

    I will say that almost 24 hours into this there hasn't been any changes. Good or bad. Say could take up to 48 so hoping last 24 hours kicks it.
    Details to follow.
     
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  9. Todd_Sails

    Todd_Sails Giant Squid

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    If it's a PHosphate issue,
    several of my local friends/reefers in my area have had GREAT results with Lanthium Chloride.
     
  10. ingtar_shinowa

    ingtar_shinowa Giant Squid

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    Alot of tangs died to bring you that LaCl
     
  11. billybaldwin3

    billybaldwin3 Skunk Shrimp

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    I think you're supposed to leave skimmers off for 4 hours after adding any chems.
     
  12. Todd_Sails

    Todd_Sails Giant Squid

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    Whats going on here? LaCl comes from Tangs?