Skimmer going nuts.

[KarL]

I just connected a gfo reactor to my system. Never used one before but I'm getting lots of algae at the moment so giving it a try. Since I've set up the gfo reactor my skimmer is going crazy and filling up within minutes. Is that normal when using gfo? That's the only thing different in my system

 

[Emac909]

Did u run ro/di water through the gfo befor hooking up to ur system.

Is there foam sponges in the reactor? Did u rinse them in ro water?

Normal gfo made my skimmer not foam for a few hours.

 

[wickedfish]

Did you let the Gfo dust run out of the reactor before adding it to your tank? Also you should place a sock on the outlet the first 3 hours. It will yield dust and fines.

Reactors also should be given a thorough vinegar bath and scrub. Sometimes the plastic smells and has possible "stuff" from the factory.

 

[wickedfish]

Agree with Eric, the Gfo usually does the opposite and knocks the skimmer head down.

 

[KarL]

I guess what I meant to say. The skimmer is filling up with water/very wet bubbles rather than the nasty skimmate.

 

[pgr11]

If this was a brand new reactor it could be residue from the manufacture process

 

[h0ndap0w3r]

Residue and or oils maybe. .. it should stop eventually

 

[lurking]

If this was a brand new reactor it could be residue from the manufacture process

This is likely the cause imo. Most new equipment will have machined residue on it and should always be washed well before hand. It should stop in a day or two.

 

[Usingthejohn]

If this was a brand new reactor it could be residue from the manufacture process

Would the residue cause any negative effects to tank and/or livestock? I also recently started a dual reactor without washing it down.

<----noobie alert.

 

[KarL]

Currently have my collection cup partially attached to the skimmer chamber and allowing some bubbles and water to escape until it calms down whenever that will be.

 

[Emac909]

No answer to any of the question?

 

[KarL]

Oops. Its a single BRS reactor that I picked up used. Gfo is a fresh batch. I probably didn't rinse out the gfo enough

 

[pgr11]

Would the residue cause any negative effects to tank and/or livestock? I also recently started a dual reactor without washing it down.

<----noobie alert.

It could if there was enough. Runs carbon to help clean it up and should be ok