Aquamaxx HOB-1 and Solana tank-need feedback

[smoq]

I have a quick question- I'd like to buy an Aquamaxx HOB-1 skimmer http://www.aquamaxxaquariums.com/AquaMaxx_HOB_Skimmers.html my Solana to replace my tunze 9002 but I don't know if it's a good idea and need feedback from someone who has it. The thing is that the intake and return from the skimmer are on it's right side which means I can't feed it from the first chamber where tunze is now. I have sponges and cheato in the second chamber and ATO in third, so what are my options except put it so it sticks out from on the left side? Thanks for your help

 

[smoq]

I thought about that and what I am thinking of is something like this

(I am sending the picture as an attachement also if the embed won't work.

So basically I'd like to turn the intake elbow 90 degrees, put a piece of rigid tubing, another elbow and the rest with strainer. What do you think? Will it make a big difference for the pump? I would like to know what size is the intake pipe and elbow.

 

[rkaragozler]

Idea is very good, does the elbow rotate freely, if it does, i would use rigid pipe not flex. other option would be to drill 2 holes on the opposite side and mount the tubes their, and cover up the old holes with a piece of acrylic

 

[smoq]

Yeah I was thinking rigid too, but I don't know the correct size. I would rather add some piping than drill holes as I don't want to loose warranty. Actually, tthe output is in perfect position, it's just the feed tube that I would like to have on left side of the skimmer. The second thing is will the pump sees any difference in operating if I add that extra plumbing?

 

[rkaragozler]

take the clear rigid pipe that came with it to a petshop they sell 4 ft lengths of the tube, then the elbow at a local hardware store,