Yes, it sucks, but while you have it, it can do some work while you save up for a better skimmer. Use the strongest pump you can, and keep the venturi tube clean at all times...salt builds up quickly in the tube, blocking off air. You may have to unclog it several times a week. Recalibrate every time, slowly opening the valve from closed. yes, its a bad skimmer, but on a small tank its better than none.