why does my skimmer go crazy ?

Discussion in 'DrTim's Aquatics' started by richiero, Mar 9, 2014.

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  1. richiero

    richiero Plankton

    Joined:
    Mar 2, 2012
    Messages:
    5
    when i dose first defense? The skimmer stays like that for 2 days i am also under dosing. Should i dose it a little at a time over time?

    i also dose waste away and i shut the skimmer off and turn it on a day later and its fine.:confused:
     
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  3. oldfishkeeper

    oldfishkeeper Giant Squid

    Joined:
    Aug 13, 2012
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    7,660
    Location:
    Cincinnati
    I'm not familiar with first defense - what does it do?
     
  4. grinder37

    grinder37 Whip-Lash Squid

    Joined:
    Sep 17, 2009
    Messages:
    2,984
    Many additives,especially those with oils in them (meds,certain foods,water conditioners,etc),can make skimmers "go crazy" until they pull the additive back out of the water.
     
  5. DrTim

    DrTim 3reef Sponsor

    Joined:
    Jan 3, 2011
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    Location:
    California
    First Defense does not contain oil. It contains a bunch of vitamins (water and fat soluble) along with a chelating agent, buffer, dechlorinator and immunostimulant. It is best to add First Defense and leave the skimmer off for 4-6 hours after adding. Yes, it is best to add a little at a time.

    Waste-Away is completely different - it is bacteria and water it does not contain any of the above which is why it does not cause the skimmer to go crazy.