Skimmer Q

Okay, I am brand new to protein skimmers. I have an Octopus 160. The instructions say to give the skimmer 2-3 weeks to break in. What exactly does "breaking in" entail? What can I expect?

Thank you!!

 

Lol, Alot of bubbles and a nasty mess ? My Coralife took about 4 days to fully break in. and it has taken out alot of nasties.

 

Okay. So I don't have to do anything special?

 

Nothing outside what the directions say.

 

Breaking in simply refers to the skimmer getting itself adjusted and used to your tank conditions. The viscosity of salt is affected by many things, oils being a big part. The oils and other various chemicals that are in the skimmer from packaging are going to restrict adequate foam production(if that makes sense). After a few days to a few weeks, the oils break free from the skimmer and a "slime" coating is formed, allowing your skimmer to produce skimmate the way it was intended

 

Ahhhh I see!! Okay, thank you guys (and girl)!!!

 

Your welcome! Btw, if you ever notice when you feed, dose chemicals, or put your hands in the tank, and notice your skimmer not skimming. That is what I meant by the viscosity being affected by different things. I hope this wasn't too confusing or long, sorry but that is the best that I could explain it.

 

Nope, totally made sense and was very helpful!