newbie question on protein skimmers

[michaelparas]

Hi,

I have a 20 gallon tank which i purchased a month ago. The aquarium is an acrylic tank with the filter case and the light built in the cover. I would like to add now a protein skimmer. Is it possible for a protein skimmer for this kind of tank? Is there a skimmer that I just put in the tank without any part going out of the tank? (unfortunately, there are no holes on the cover except for the power head and some space for aerator tubes).

Also, is there anyone here from Manila, Philippines? I am trying to get help from local hobbyists who are online but i cant seem to find one.

Thanks,

Mike

[Poseidon]

Only thing I can think of is the "fission" skimmer....

It looks like this:


Oh almost forgot.... !

[michaelparas]

thanks, does the top part need to be above water? or can it be fully submerged?

[Poseidon]

The top part has to be above water... I don't know of any that can be 100% underwater, sorry.

[Reefland]

There are not any that can be fully submerged, there would be no way to remove the skimmers product. I think you are going to need to modify your hood.

[michaelparas]

I think I see now that the only viable option is to have a protein skimmer on the outside. My tank hood has 2 extra holes at the back (where my sponge are housed). I may need to use these 2 for the protein skimmer. So basically, how will I get water to the external protein skimmer? Do i need a pump (just like the power head for my external mechanical filter)? Which I guess the 2 holes will be used for water beig sucked into the skimmer and back out the other hole back to the water.

Sorry for asking such newbie questions and thanks guys for answering.

[Reefland]

Any HOT skimmer is going to have a pump with it for feeding the skimmer. It is going to take more than a couple of small holes, you will have to have a pretty large section notched from teh hood for the skimmer to hang.

[michaelparas]

thanks, I think I got it now. I will go to the only pet shop chain here in manila (sigh, so few choices) and see what i can purchase there. Will post pics soon.

Thanks for all the help again

[Reefland]

If you can't find a Deltec, AquaC, or CPR, I wouldn't get one.

[michaelparas]

Thanks for naming the brands. Hopefully they are available here. Unfortunately, if none of the above are not available, I may have no other choice but to buy what is locally available.