skimmer noobie

So I'm looking for a great skimmer for my 125g, large bioload. I've read about skimmers and it seems like octopus or Eshop are best bang for the bucks.


Question 1- What types of skimmers are there? Are their only two types - insump and HOB? Or is there another one called external that sits below the tank without a sump?

 

External protein skimmers as far as I know sit by the sump but not in it and are set up a little differently to recirculate the filtered water back to the sump. You will find lots of opinions as far as skimmers for your tank go. SWC skimmers have been getting very solid reviews and look well made. The SWC 200 "Xtreme" might fit the bill for your tank, if not the 250 model. Bubble Magus also has some well priced and powerful skimmers in their line up.

 

I presently have a reef octopus 150 in my 125 and I have no complaints as of yet.

 

I have an Eshopps PSK-150 and quite pleased. Based on your description you will need to get a skimmer rated for 250gallons.

 

I use an ASM G1X protein skimmer and it does a great job, easy to clean, produces a lot of skimmate so I know it's doing it's job.

 

i have the 200 and i realy like it