skimmer vs carbon

since I started running my carbon reactor, I have had very little if any proteins showing up in my skimmer cup..? I expected a reduction, but this is like none.

 

how long ago did you install the reactor? And how long have you had the skimmer?

 

been running the skimmer for about 4 years...generally about a 1/4 cup of skimate per week, never thick but dark...give or take... put the carbon reactor in about 4 months ago...change the carbon about every 4 weeks...water is crystal clear....I was under the impression that the proteins that don't stick to the bubbles..will be picked up by the carbon...but it looks like my carbon is picking up everything...running ROX from BRS....its not a problem..I don't think, but it is odd....need your experienced opinion..

 

What sized tank, what is the bioload and how much carbon? Generally carbon removes much of the same stuff as a skimmer, but does so more effectively and probably removes a bit more. The downside is it needs to be replaced often. So, in the long term is generally more expensive. It isn't surprising at all though that it would compete with your skimmer, for those reasons.


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agree with all you stated...I think I'll shut the skimmer off for awhile and see how it goes...I'm running about a cup..to 1 and a half cups of carbon...changing about 4 weeks or so.
my sig is not showing up in my replies...cause I got it turned off..but here it is..
90 gallon reef with fish / 25 gallon Sump /Fuge, LR, LS, Cheato/ Return
,CPR Skimmer / RODI system @ 75gpd. Carbon Reactor
6 X T5 / 3 actinic and 3 white 15k, plus 12 X Lunar Lighting
Flame Angel, Purple Urch, Yellow Wrasse, Cardinal, Damsel and Dotty.
Many Polyps, Zoas, Acans, Torch, Frog Spawn, Mushrooms, Candy Cane, Colts.
Large Cleaning crew...the usual suspects.

 

What kind of skimmer? You should be getting a lot more skimate than that, with that tank and bioload. Even with the carbon... I would guess your skimmer needs to be adjusted or cleaned. However, it would be good to know what skimmer.

 

just an ol' CPR HOB that hangs on the side of my return...been running strong with a 1200 Rio for about 4 years....replaced the Rio 1200 pump last year...then started my reactor about 3 or 4 months ago... tomorrow is WC day...and it is equipment cleaning time (approx. every 3 months)...so I will see if it improves after a thorough ******.. : / ...its bubble'n like a mutha...

 

All good now...just needed a bit'o house keeping (dirty)....thanx for the kick in the .. Now its a rip'n ! Thanx again !!

 

Glad to hear, definitely can make a big difference :thumb_up: