Gadgets can be addicting. In this hobby we often look at the latest and greatest to improve performance in hopes of improving our miniature reefs. Before looking at upgrading to a new piece of equipment try cleaning your existing one first. As uninteresting and unsexy as that sounds, this is something rarely talked about or [...]
Gadgets can be addicting. In this hobby we often look at the latest and greatest to improve performance in hopes of improving our miniature reefs. Before looking at upgrading to a new piece of equipment try cleaning your existing one first. As uninteresting and unsexy as that sounds, this is something rarely talked about or advocated. If it has been over 6 months since cleaning a pump give it a shot. I think you will be pleasantly surprised.
Aquarists spend $1K on a protein skimmer only to never clean it until it is replaced and removed from the system. Skimmer pumps can be drastically effected by debris and sludge build up. I hate to use Steve Weast as an example, both his large reef and cool water reef were two of the best aquariums around, but his experience is a vivid example. After cleaning his large Deltec Skimmer, Steve experienced a 200g overflow from the increase in airdraw from his Eheim skimmer pumps! In my opinion skimmer pumps should be cleaned at least every 6 months for their best performance.
Flow pumps are also greatly effected. The output of stream styles, like Vortechs or Tunzes, is dependent on the intake. If this is obstructed in any way flow will be greatly decreased. After 1 month I would estimate the flow on our MP20 is reduced by 15-20% from debris and algae one the intake screen. For that reason it receives a cleaning every other week.
Take the time to clean your equipment. A vinegar bath can make a world of a difference. Pumps will perform as intended, last longer and look newer.
