[CRJDriver]

Heres the question, what do I get first a skimmer, or a UV sterilizer?

I have a 75gal FOWLR (a few mushrooms that came outta the LR also), with a sump. Just got done letting the tank sit empty for about 8 weeks. Just added the 3 chromis that survived back into the main tank. I'm trying to make some improvements on my system so this doesn't happen again and I've narrowed it down between these two pieces of equipment. I've heard wonders (basically from people on here) about the AquaC skimmer, but don't know much about UV sterilizers. Along with your suggestions to the question if you could make suggestions as to which brand to purchase.

Thanks in advance!

[leebca]

I thought R/C Man could give you some equipment guidance, so I moved your post to his Forum.

To me, a skimmer is more fundamental than a UV 'filter.' When it comes to a UV sterilizer, sizing and flow rate are fundamental. There are so many opinions on this, combined with a lack of standardizing of UV ratings, that their choice/selection can be confusing. For UV suggestions, you might wish to start with looking over a vendor site. They have some good basics on UVs and their selection that will give you some hints on what to look for:
marineandreef.com/ UV Sterilization Overview

Good luck!

[CRJDriver]

Thanks the UV link was helpful! I'll go try and track down the thread in R/Cs forum.

[golfish]

If you don't have a GOOD RO/DI system then I'd suggest that over anything. If you think you might be leaning towards a reef tank soon then a GOOD skimmer is higher on the list then a UV, Hec, even if your into fish I'd still suggest a good skimmer over a UV.

[CRJDriver]

What skimmer do you suggest? I'm looking for an in-sump skimmer (75gal). The coralife Super Skimmer seems to fit in my budget nicely. Any comments on it? I see a lot of people recommending the AquaC, however its 300 bucks, and then u gotta by the pump also, or can i just hook it up to my main pump?

[golfish]

I've been in this hobby over 20 years, I've yet to use a single item with the Coralife name on it that was any good. That said, I have read decent things about the CL skimmers. I wouldn't waste my money on em. I suggest the ASM G2 or even better G3. For the extra few bucks you'll be getting a proven skimmer.

[The R/C Man]

Hey!

I would definitaly recommend a skimmer over the UV. A UV sterilizer is really an option and not a requirement like a skimmer. So buy a skimmer first. Unfortunately quality skimmers are not cheap. Hold out for an Aqua C or a Barr Aquatic skimmer ect. You may even consider a used one (I believe there is a used Barr Aquatic skimmer here in town for $250). They are your main filtration method. With that said buy larger than you think you need. Skimmers do not really have an accurate rating for tank size. If for example we both have a 75 gallon tanks and yours contains 4 average sized fish and mine has 6 averaged sized fish, inverts and corals. Obviously mine tank will produce more waste due to the higher bio load. A good rule of thumb is if the skimmer you have is constantly producing waste then it is to small for the system..... Let me know if you would like me to check on that skimmer. Or, you could always ask Kevinpo about it since it is in his shop on consignment....