DIY Surface Skimmer for HOB
 

In an effort to remove the buildup of surface slime and increase degassing I turned one of my Cascade 150's into a surface skimmer. The amount of skimming action can be regulated by how high the nylon sock is raised on the intake tube(last picture). The last section is a tight fit but it can be removed and a sponge added to the PVC as well.
I used 1/2"NSF-pw(for potable water) PVC piping-short sections of pipe, couplings, elbows, and an old intake tube extension from an Aquaclear HOB.(I never throw anything away...LOL) :wink:
Also one of my Wife's nylon socks and a couple rubber bands...the cost of doing that is unknown at this time..though I'm sure I'll hear about it from her :roll:
It covers the white PVC and looks alot better but also serves the purpose of regulating the skimming.
Total cost of project was under $5
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b3...h/PICT0006.jpg
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b3...h/PICT0007.jpg
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b3...h/PICT0008.jpg
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b3...h/PICT0009.jpg

lol, cool idea...I dig it :-) I love custom made stuff. I once made an awesome filter for a red-eared slider turtle tank in one of the stores I worked at just with parts lying around in the back.

wow, that's awesome. I just posted it on this other board I go to here with a link back to you.... anything mixing quality and money smarts needs be spread around

Whats the use of a surface skimmer?
 

Hi,

Sorry, Im new to the skimmers, so want to know these-

What actually is the slime that you are talking about?
Does it form in SW/FW or both?

How exactly does the skimmer you have designed work?

Thanks

:)

Re: Whats the use of a surface skimmer?
 

A surface skimmer is different than a skimmer.

In a SW tank, algea often forms on the glass, and then gets in your tank, and then gets at the surface. I have a terrible surface algea problem right now, which I have been looking for a SS.

A skimmer actually removes things from the water. These would be harmful nutrients that the skimmer extracts out. Targets much more than just getting rid of surface scum.