How do you build a protein skimmer?

[Sleek07470]

I'm new to this site and just found out that you could build your own equipment. I was thinking about starting a 40 or 45 gal. aquarium. How exactly would I build a protein skimmer and how powerful a pump would I need. The more detailed the better.Thanks!

 

[Christian Schwalm]

Just find a design (browse the internet) that you like AND UNDERSTAND, and copy it. You don't have to use clear PVC, which is expensive, but logistically it makes it easier.
For the size pump, take a look at the skimmers you see advertised and see what pumps they are matched up with. In other words, for a skimmer with this diameter and height, use this pump.

Christian Schwalm
SkyLab
www.wetdryfilter.com

by the way, unless you can get clear PVC for free or very cheap, it's not worth going this route. May as well just buy one because of the amount of work it will take to make it look good and work well.

 

[StirCrazy]

by the way, unless you can get clear PVC for free or very cheap, it's not worth going this route. May as well just buy one because of the amount of work it will take to make it look good and work well.

I have seen you post this in two differen post in the DYI section, and you sell skimmers, sounds like you are trying to discourage people from making them and buy one of yours, as far as I know this kinda practice is not allowed unless it is a comercial posting area.

not only are you misleading people but you are wrong.. most skimmers can be built for a heck of a lot less then buying one, (usaly for about 25% of the price) as for the amount of work it takes.. hmm 2 hours is well worth 400.00 to me, seing that the skimmer I made for 100.00 sells for 500.00 in the store. I am by no means a plastic expert myself but I got some scraps for cheep and played around with them to learn how to glue.. also the great thing about skimmers and such is they usaly go under the stand so they don;t have to look perfect.. there is a lot of satisfaction in making it yourself even if it has a blemish or two.

Steve

 

[reefer_wannabe]

StirCrazy- I think that Christian was making a comment about the cost of clear PVC. I don't know if you've priced it, but there is a BIG difference between the price of PVC and acrylic. PVC, for 4" diameter piece sold in 10 foot lengths, is $15.60 USD per foot. Acrylic, same diameter, sold in 6' lengths, is $5.44 USD. These prices are out of the US Plastics catalog, and can be found at www.usplastics.com . I honestly don't think this is a sales pitch, but simply a caution on the price of some items. Plus, I don't know how difficult clear PVC is to work with. I can't afford the stuff, myself! :?

 

[Will C1]

i am currenly building "the world uglyist skimmer" it is ugly but i can understand how it works and it is a simple design made from 4" PVC look up some site and you will find something you like try a simple one first if it works well try something harder.