AquaC EV-180 question??

[inedukated]

Hello all,

 

I came upon a used AquaC EV-180 protein skimmer. I was originally using a AquaC Remora skimmer, which was doing great, but i couldn't resist this deal for an upgrade....

 

Question -

Does anyone have one of these, and if so, I am concerned that mine is not set up right. I have it outside the sump, and it's currently on a 500gph (I know they recommend 700) pump. I have the return valve open on the other side of the system, which drains into my refugium. I am not getting any foam inside the unit. It seems that it just pumps right in one side, and drains back from the other side. Am I doing something wrong?

 

Any help? comments?

 

-Ben

[cbashaw]

The EV-180 is rated for a Mag 7 and IMO even that is too small. I would go with something like a mag 9.5 (I use a Mag 12 but it's turned way down) or preferably an eheim 1262.

 

I think your problem is that you do not have enough pressure going through the skimmer. Also if the pump or skimmer are new they may need a few days to break in before it will produce foam.

 

If that doesn't solve the problem make sure there is nothing stuck in the injector. Mine would not work well if some macro algae or sand got stuck in it.

[BeltwayBandit]

With those skimmers you have to use the outlet valve to throttle the system via back pressure. Close the valve 1/4 turn at a time until the water level is just below the tower. You should then start to get the bubling/foaming action. Let it sit there for a day or 2 and then adjust the water level up or down depending on how much foam you are/are not producing. Close the valve to get more skimmate, open it to "dry" the skimmate out.

[Steve G]

With those skimmers you have to use the outlet valve to throttle the system via back pressure. Close the valve 1/4 turn at a time until the water level is just below the tower. You should then start to get the bubling/foaming action. Let it sit there for a day or 2 and then adjust the water level up or down depending on how much foam you are/are not producing. Close the valve to get more skimmate, open it to "dry" the skimmate out.

 

What they said. I have a 180 and I upgraded from Mag 7 to Mag 9. Also, I have to fine tune the gate valve to get the bubbles going. Be careful or else you will just get water out the top.

 

Mine is also outside the sump on a makeshift platform.

[inedukated]

What they said. I have a 180 and I upgraded from Mag 7 to Mag 9. Also, I have to fine tune the gate valve to get the bubbles going. Be careful or else you will just get water out the top.

 

Mine is also outside the sump on a makeshift platform.

 

Thanks for the help. I think I'll have to upgrade pumps. I've already posted a wanted ad for a Mag 9.5!

 

I adjusted the return gait on the skimmer, and the unit is filling up fine now, just not too many bubbles. I think that may be due to the pump size. I'll keep an eye on it for a few days and see if anyone replies to my post for the mag 9.5