Protein Skimmer advice

[Rob2226]

Just picked up a Berlin Air-Lift 90 Skimmer for my 75 Gal. I'm just getting into Reef Keeping. Tank has been up for 8 mos. Only maybe 40Lbs live rock, 4in live sand bed, and 1 Yelow Tang. Is this skimmer ok for my tank or should I go eith another brand? Picked it up at PetsMart for $50.00. Good deal or no?

 

[percula]

Its not much of a skimmer... you may be able to use it, but maybe not. Im not going to say go and spend $400 on a new beckett skimmer or venturi... but consider it... maybe after a while upgrade, there are many ways to do this so choose your way, you can always say that is better than no skimmer! Remember to have fun, learn, and enjoy. And welcome! I hope you can learn and teach on the board! - perc

 

[MedicineMan1]

I'm not all that familiar with that skimmer so I can't make anything but a couple of generalized, educated guesses as far as suggestions. First thing I'd do is get a bigger pump than the one recommended. If I'm guessing correctly, this skimmer also requires an air stone to drive it. Use the biggest air pump you can get.
Another suggestion for your tank is to get more live rock. The 4" DSB will work very well but my own personal view is that one should have at LEAST 1 pound of LR per gallon of aquarium.