not sure what I need

going to be upgrading to a 75 gallon salt tank. I have never had a protein skimmer and would like some imput as to what types are good and what all do you need to buy extra when you get your first skimmer. I am not running a sump as of yet . any help would be appreciated

 

Well, will you have a sump or not is the question? Also, what is your price range? Stocking of the tank (heavy, light)? And finally, almost all skimmers come with everything you need.

 

+1... more info would help.

While it may take a little more time initially, it's always cheaper and easier in the long run to get everything you want first, rather than changing and adding to an established system. I.E.- if you want a sump, drill your tank (if necessary) and get the sump now, then buy an in-sump skimmer.

 

When buying my first skimmer, I was told a larger skimmer is better. At least one that can handle twice the volume of your tank.

 

I have a 30 gallon tank I am going to use as a sump but not sure how to build it. anyone have any simple plans on how to do so

 

I purchase glass from my local glass shop had them cut it and polish the edges for me then used aquarium silcone to place them in the tank/sump. the dimensions for each chamber and such will determine size of skimmer/or if you have a skimmer in mind it will help determine the size of the chambers. size of the return pump area is also important because too small and you will be topping off all the time to big and you waste space.

So really still need more info. Pump used for return. Skimmer you intend to use. (Iam currently using a AquaC 120 on about the same amount of water volume you are looking at and it does well but they can be finicky) Do you plan to do anything else in the sump area. ATO?

GL