protein skimmers...is it just me?

OK, we are all hobbyists/ enthusiasts. And like to have awesome gear etc....but am i the only one with brains enough to realize that a protein Skimmer (at all levels) is a bubble maker on a verticle water column with a collection cup ...I.e.- a pump with a needle wheel , air driven, water and air driven....for thousands of dollars.....are we bat **** crazy?

 

Yes we are crazy, the hobby is about having lots of toys for sure. Skimmers are a simply but effective tool. Some work better than others. Prices are always higher for this hobby because they know they can get away with it.

 

Your correct, although, I would never consider spending thousands on a skimmer. Reef Octopus, E-shops etc... all work fine. In fact, a take home message of this article was that cheap skimmers perform just as well as higher end skimmers:
Feature Article: Further Studies on Protein Skimmer Performance — Advanced Aquarist | Aquarist Magazine and Blog

 

I believe pump quality is a factor, some are more quiet and durable. Also the quality of materials used.

 

Mine was under $100... no crazy found here.

 

It is the Tim Taylor Tool Time principle if a little is good the a lot is much better. It usually works better than Tim's attempts but usually on a diminishing returns basis. If you can find quality components at low prices you are golden.