Skimmer help

Discussion in 'Protein Skimmers' started by 99taws6, Dec 10, 2011.

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  1. 99taws6

    99taws6 Plankton

    Joined:
    Sep 2, 2007
    Messages:
    22
    I have a PM Redline100 skimmer. It has the standard needlewheel pump. When the skimmer is shut off and I have to restart it I have to blow into the airline to get the skimmer to start working. It's almost like the pump won't even work without it. It's spins, but really slow. I have taken apart and cleaned every part I can. It works great once I blow into it.

    When I bought it the original owner said he always had to do that.

    Any ideas? It'd be nice to not have to do that every time. Thanks.
     
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  3. DaDaAtlanta

    DaDaAtlanta Feather Star

    Joined:
    Jan 24, 2009
    Messages:
    782
    Location:
    Atlanta/Chicago
    Stick the open end of the airline in a glass of r/o water and it will pull the water from the cup and clean out and salt deposits as well. This should get the pump started as with many other skimmers. Try it and see, it should work just takes a few seconds but you will hear it
     
  4. sticksmith23

    sticksmith23 Giant Squid

    Joined:
    Jun 1, 2011
    Messages:
    4,053
    Location:
    Greenville, SC
    Have you cleaned it with straight vinegar yet? That should help. Also, you could try and buy a new needlewheel. The blades could have worn down, just a thought.