[adviner]

I'm in the process of building/purchasing a hang on refugium for my 55 gal tank. I'm not sure if i'm going to build it or buy it. My question is their seems to be two types of refugium one with a skimmer and one without. For example CPR Aquafuge. currently my tank has a small wet/dry filter built on the canonpy that i want to replace with the hang-on refugium. So my question is a skimmer required? I've read some post saying that its not. Also is CPR a good brand for refugiums? Is their other alternatives out their?

Thanks

[pogodzib]

The CPR refugiums are the most popular brand. They did have an issue with some of the bracing pulling apart, but that issue has been resolved. As for a skimmer, no it is not necessary, but VERY helpful. I wouldn't recommend running a reef tank without a good skimmer and feel that skimmerless tanks should only be left to experienced reef keepers. Most people feel that, besides for the lighting, the skimmer is the most important single piece of equipment in a reef tank. Also, I am not aware of any skimmer/refugium combo that is nearly as good as buying them separately. The skimmers included in the combo units aren't very good.

[adviner]

Do they make standalone skimmers that i can just put to the side of my tank (outside the tank) and attached to a pump? Any recomendations?

[pogodzib]

Yes, they are called hang-on tank (HOT or HOB) skimmers. There are many, many different brands that make them. AquaC Remora and Coralife Superskimmer (needlewheel version) are decent skimmers that are reasonably priced. For the most part, anything cheaper than those skimmers are usually junk. There are several skimmers that are better, but they will cost more as well, so you'll need to determine your budget. When deciding on a skimmer, you'll want to do plenty of research and get one that is rated for double your tank size since most manufacturers rate their skimmers for way larger water volumes than they should be.

BTW - If you have a sump, you'll get much more "bang for the buck" buying an in-sump skimmer than you will with a HOT skimmer.

[jimw369]

Originally Posted by adviner

Do they make standalone skimmers that i can just put to the side of my tank (outside the tank) and attached to a pump? Any recomendations?

You mean like one of these?

[adviner]

ha ha, my wife would like that in our living room. Not to mention using it on a 55 gal tank.

[likemike99]

I have a prism pro hang on skimmer and it works great. It has a pump built into the skimmer so it is not in the tank.

[volitan_fa]

You don't necessarily need a skimmer, but in any system over 20 gallons I would certainly recommend it. I agree with the quality being better if you buy each separately. You can get a Turboflotor skimmer (very good) for about USD250. If you want a budget skimmer, the seaclone 150 will work for about USD 80-85. Good luck