Thoughts on Reef Octopus Neck Cleaner

Anybody use one of these? I have the Reef Octopus XP1000SSS and would hook up the neck cleaner to an Apex controller. Any thoughts or experience if it's any good?

Reef Octopus Automatic Neck Cleaner (ANC) with Lid - Bulk Reef Supply

 

There are several reefers here who use automated squeegees for the skimmer neck.Heres a bump for you.

 

I have the xp5000ext and love the neck cleaner much more consistent skimmate.

 

Most of the ones I have seen are called the swabbie and get good reviews.

AVAST Marine Works - Swabbie - Product Details

 

I am all about technology, and I have spent some bucks on the latest and greatest bells and whistles for my tank, but not sure I see the value in this. It takes 2 minutes to clean your skimmer a couple of times a week. Does this really provide any value? (Not saying it does not, but I can't seem to see it)

 

The cleaner the neck and throat area the better your skimmer will perform so...IMO yes definitely a handy piece of equipment as you can set it to turn once a day eliminating any buildup.

 

Thanks for the reply guys. Yes, I'm struggling with the cost vs convenience argument. But also think it would be super handy. They suggest running 4-6x per day which my Apex could take care of. I'm thinking it's one less thing I would need to do, lol. Well, I'll keep thinking about it and probably buy during black Friday when BRS usually has the mega 15x points or something .

 

I didn't find mine to work consistently enough. I ended up taking it off (the swabbie)

I loved it when it worked. But I couldn't keep the blade positioned right after about 2 months of use.

 

Thanks Grim I was hoping you would show up.lol;D

 

Sure thing Vinnie!

The Reef Octo version looks like it wouldn't have the same issue as the swabbie. Because the blades are balanced and fixed. The swabbie uses one blade that is held at a pivot so it's adjustable and that adjustment kept coming loose.