CadLights Skimmer not bubbling
Printed From: Utah Reefs
Category: Specialized Discussion
Forum Name: Equipment
Forum Description: This is the place to ask question about reef equipment.
URL: http://www.utahreefs.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=73071
Printed Date: July 03 2026 at 10:56am
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Topic: CadLights Skimmer not bubbling
Posted By: Drippin
Subject: CadLights Skimmer not bubbling
Date Posted: September 23 2014 at 7:02pm
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I have had this cadlights skimmer for over a year, and I have been happy with it. The only down side is that I have had a couple of instances where it stops producing bubbles. Both previous times, I have insured that the air line was clear, removed the aeration fitting, cleaned it and soaked it in vinegar for a while and then rinsed thoroughly before putting it back in use. After the cleanings, things were great.... this last time, only 5 days ago, after cleaning it started skimming again, but now just a few days later it has stopped again. Is this normal, what should I be doing to remedy this? Any insights are appreciated.  65 gallon tank, 30 gal sump Derek ------------- _________________________ New to Salt, trying to learn :). 65 gal. |
Replies:
Posted By: badfinger
Date Posted: September 23 2014 at 7:27pm
| Are you cleaning the venturi? |
Posted By: Drippin
Date Posted: September 23 2014 at 8:35pm
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The first time it happened, I removed the pump shield and did clean the venturi. Since I posted, I have been cleaning it again, found there was some obstruction on the infeed. Dug that out, reassembled and seems to be working again. I guess it just takes regular thorough cleanings. ------------- _________________________ New to Salt, trying to learn :). 65 gal. |
Posted By: Mark Peterson
Date Posted: September 23 2014 at 9:36pm
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In the venturi hole where the air meets the water, calcium carbonate can build up, requiring regular cleaning. Has the pump continued to run without bubbles or did the pump stop running? Next time, check the pump impeller for swelling. The impeller magnet cylinder walls should be completely straight lengthwise. There should be no pitting, holes or worn areas on the cylinder. Hold the shaft between thumb and forefinger and spin the impeller. Look closely to see if it is spinning straight or wobbling. If it's wobbling, the impeller may have swollen on one end causing it to be out of balance. Get a new impeller. Aloha  ------------- Reefkeeping Tips, & quick, easy setup tricks: www.utahreefs.com/forum/forum_posts.asp?TID=9244 Pay it forward - become a paid WMAS member 
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Posted By: Drippin
Date Posted: September 23 2014 at 9:46pm
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Thanks Mark. The pump has continued to run. I have not checked for swelling or to see if the shaft remains straight and true. I will check these next. Thanks for the suggestions. I appreciate your insights. ------------- _________________________ New to Salt, trying to learn :). 65 gal. |