Should I or Shouldn't I?

I know you probably see this question alot but I have to ask anyway. My LFS is telling me I must get a skimmer, I typically do a small 10% water change either once a week or everyother week. My nitrate level is almost always near zero, seems to always have a little bit anyway, seems normal to me. I know everyone's opinion is 50/50 so should I just do it and be done or could I actually be doing worst for my tank. Some people tell me it will take out alot of trace elements that I need for the live rock and coral. Sorry for the stupid question.

 

I am pretty sure the whole purpose of a protein skimmer is to remove dissolved organic materials (DOMs) as a way to reduce nitrates (NO3) indirectly. So if your nitrates are at or near zero (like mine=0.3) then a protein skimmer is unnecessary! With more fish and added bio-load the need for a skimmer becomes more pressing. Ammonia is very toxic and can kill your fish fast, so If your bioload becomes too great I not hesitate in getting the most advanced SW filtration device, just wait until there really is a need for it. Maybe if you want the most pristine, clear water, the skimmer will give you those results.

 

I had a skimmer on my 12 gallon, I've read articles where they say skimmers aren't necessary on a small tanks. The skimmer I had pulled alot of crap out... I would say get one when you can, it's not something that is a emergency....

 

I'll probably get one anyway, I was just afraid it would pull out even good stuff, I don't like adding any chemicals or additives and hopefully I won't have to.
Thanks for input

 

I added kent super buffer to my cube about twice a week. My ph was at 8.2. I also added liquid gold from coralife about every three days....

 

A skimmer is a good piece of security. It can save your butt. But then again I have seen time and time again people who run without. I've read stuff from Borneman that says that the DOCs that we target are better removed with GAC than with skimming.

Me I run a ridiculouly oversized beast of a skimmer. Why? Because I like to know that its there incase something goes arye.