Belin X-2 Turbo Skimmer

Question
QUESTION: Hello Bill I had a question I just got a Berlin X-2 Turbo protein skimmer for my 110 gallon aquarium. I have 3 days running this product. I have trouble balancing out the water flow and the air vavle. I have my powerhead set to low and the air valve set to max. My skimmer seems to be bubbling on top but when the foam falls into the collection cup and turns into water and I have to change the collection cup twice a day or 3. How can I fix this problem and make this product work properly. I would hate to return this product. Can you please help me to solve this problem.

ANSWER: Hello Gerardo,

I do not have personal experience with this skimmer, but i doubt it is defective or needing of being 'returned'.  Just finding hte correct 'sweet spot' will be the trick.  And that trick is true of all skimmers..  Also, most skimmers need to break-in.  This is the time that it takes to rinse off any residue left over from the manufacturing process, i.e. hand oils, machine oils etc...

Please tell me if you can adjust the height of the collection cup?  Can you 'rasie it or lift it' up a little?

I would start off by turning off the air.  No bubbles.

Then adjust the pump or the height of the cup, so that the water level is just below the neck below the cup...  then slowly, (like 1/2 turn) at a time open the air. and wait.  Wait a half a day or more...

(if the water level rises when you open the air, then lower the water level by way of the pump or raising hte cup a little more.)

If you need to adjust the air some more, then open the valve another 1/2 turn.  And work/try in steps like this...


If the water level is too high, you will get WET SKIMMATE.  Which isnt too bad, but you will be adding saltwater daily to relace what was skimmed out...

But, please, give it some time... I am sure that in a short period, the foam will dry up a little more then you have now, and you will get some smelly nog in your future...


Good luck and let me know how things work out for you



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---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hi Bill thanks for the quick respond. Well I cannot adjust the collection cup, it has a o-ring between the skimmer and the cup. I have this skimmer set up as a hang out. If I decrease the air valve the water will overflow to the collection cup and fill it up quickly. I keep the powerhead low and also the air valve all the way open. The foam is on top of the end of the cup like a volvanoe then the foam turns to water but fills out quick even if I have the water current low.

Answer
Are you using the specified pump, (not powerhead)??

There has to be a way to control the water level.  If the directions/paperwork are not cleare, i suggest contacting hte manufacturer and finding out how to adjust/lower the water level.

Usually it is done with a valve where the water is discharged back into the tank, (I dont see that on your skimmer though)

So, either pump is too big, or the collection cup is too low, (maybe raise the entire skimmer?)or there is something wrong?)

I am sorry I can not be of more help.

Good luck, and please let me know how things work out for you???