Tunze DOC Protein Skimmer

[js38311]

Does anyone have any experience or knowledge of the Tunze DOC line of protein skimmers? I am looking at the 9010 model. It looks interesting because it is an in-tank skimmer. I don't know if you can put any in sump model in the display tank or not. If so, then I'd go for any of those since there is zero chance of overfow outside of the tank.

[Biohaz]

I am using the 9015 model in my sump, and it does a great job...nice smelly dark colored scum that comes out. The only concern I would have with an in the tank set up would be the height of the collection cup, it may give you grief with your light hood if not enough clearance

[pmartin]

i have one Tunze Nano DOC Protein Skimmer and to be honest i don’t think it is that good at all.

i am going to bring it back to my LFS because it is just not doing the job as Biohaz said you need to have the water level right before the skimmer works and it will stick out of you hood. I was tempted to cut a hole in my hood but decided against it.

i find that whenever i put my hand into the tank the skimmer stops skimming (well the bubbles decrease, I was told that was due to the grease on my hand which I think is a load of crap)

The support bracket mounting for the in tank skimmer is also not that stable and if it moves in anyway the skimmer doesn’t work.

The noise from the skimmer pump is quite high and is the noisest piece of equipment I have.

Now maybe I am being a bit hard as it is my first skimmer.

The tunze is cheaper but I think it is fro a reason.

if you need any more info send me a mail

[Biohaz]

I originally had the same noise issue with the Tunze DOC skimmers, however I forgot to install a certain piece and the noise quit after it was installed. I do not have problems with the water level with this skimmer like I have had with my precision Marine skimmer. It does stop making bubbles when you place hands or feed certain products, but this is only momentarily. Hope this helps.

[pmartin]

nice one Biohaz, can you remember what piece you put in?

[Biohaz]

here is the part I was talking about...

[pmartin]

i have the Tunze DOC Skimmer 9002 so it doesnt have the part you pointed out.

so i cant comment on that particular skimmer.

hopefully i havent confused the situation

[Biohaz]

hopefully I did not either, happy reefing

[CarmieJo]

I think that it makes sense that oils from your hand or food will cause the skimmer to stop skimming because you have changed the surface tension of the water.

[pmartin]

hello again CarmieJo

what i should have said was that i am disappointed that my skimmer is so sensitive.

[CarmieJo]

Just out of curiosity, how long does it not work after you've had your hands in the water?

[Biohaz]

I will do some timing tomorrow and let you know

[Russel P]

I'm pretty sure you will find that all skimmers will quit pulling foam for a while after putting your hands in the tank.

[bubbletip]

Agreed Russy, especially if your hands have any type of oily or perfumy substance on them. One of the best tips I learned when I began this hobby is to very thoroughly clean my arms and hands before putting them in the tank. Lotions that are on your hands that are not completely cleaned off will make your skimmer go crazy. It is the easiset way to overflow your skimmer.

Lessons to learn - keep your hands and arms totally clean and don't put your hands in the tank if you don't have to.