Modify sump to create constant water level & protein skimmer working optimally

[jmadden93]

My skimmer doesn't skim properly when the water level isn't constant (you've always got to adjust it if water levels change from evaporation), so I was thinking if it was possible to create a chamber in my sump that can maintain a constant water level. This way I can set my skimmer up for one water level & have it work optimally all the time.

Any idea how I'd do that with this sump? Mine is much larger than the one in this picture, but it's the same model as mine.

My Sump:
http://www.petsr4u.com/prodimages/allglass/megaflow.jpg

My Skimmer:
Oceanic Systems | Products | Super Skimmer - Needle-Wheel System

[metalhead]

It would be possible to modify that sump... What you would want is for the water entering the pump chamber to flow over the last baffle instead of under it. The point at which the water flowed over or through that baffle would be where your water level would stay. The problem is that the water level in the pump chamber would fall faster due to evaporation and, if not replenished frequently enough, would run your pump dry. You may also have problems with air bubbles entering the return pump, your sump was designed that way for a reason.

I think a better solution for you would be an auto top-off system. This way you would not have to drill/cut on your nice sump box and the water level would remain constant in the sump as water would be replinished constantly as it evaporates.

[jmadden93]

Thanks for all the advice! I wonder if it is just smarter for me to get a different type of protein skimmer. Is there a type who's performance during skimming isn't affected by water levels in the sump?

[Nemo Keeper]

I have a a protein skimmer that is connected to the bottom of the sump via PVC plumbing. Of course it was a DIY project, but it seems to work exactly the same all the time without having to change the waterflow to it. If you have any questions on how to set it up let me know.

[metalhead]

Thanks for all the advice! I wonder if it is just smarter for me to get a different type of protein skimmer. Is there a type who's performance during skimming isn't affected by water levels in the sump?

Nah... As long as it's skimming good, that's the main thing. You'll want to maintain a constant water level anyway in order to avoid salinity swings and other bad things. A good top-off system is much cheaper than a new skimmer anyway assuming you already have a RO unit.

[Seige]

I'd go with the top off since you could set that up for around $10. You get the bonus of keeping your salinity levels constant.

Otherwise get a piece of plexiglass and add it into your sump as a baffle like metalhead described in post #2. You can put a float switch on the pump to shut it off if the water in the return section drops to low. Practice with some scrap plexiglass so you don't make a huge mess.