The new Reef Octopus eSsence S-130 Protein Skimmer is a compact skimmer built to perform. For those Reef Octopus fans looking to add a new skimmer or upgrade, but have space limitations in the sump, this might be a good skimmer for you.
The internal skimmer is build to be efficient and is driven by a Reef Octopus Aquatrance 1800s pinwheel pump that can produce well on tanks up to 160 gallons (always dependent on bioload of course).
The bubble plate has some unique angled grooves and holes on the bubble plate to keep a steady supply of small bubbles going to strip out those organics. They also note a “vortex churn effect” that increases the dwell time.
Overall there are some nice touches like a “Twist & Lift” collection cup that also can double as a detachable air silencer. There is a 16-step water level adjustment dial that gives you more control on setting the water level.
One thing we really liked was the quick release tabs to make cleaning out the body much, much easier. Instead of thumb screws (or screws) a quick pop of the tab gets it off and cleaned. Now we’ll have to come up with another excuse why we don’t clean it.
We also appreciate (or your significant other will appreciate this one), they thought about quiet operation with their submerged output to cut down on the splashing. Using their silencer also drops noise by 12% according to their data.
The skimmer has a 6 in. diameter body with an overall 8.3 in. x 6.9 in. footprint and is 20.5 in. tall. The Reef Octopus eSsence S-130 Protein Skimmer retails for $299.99 and is available in the U.S. from CoralVue.
Check out the video below for more information.
https://www.facebook.com/coralvueaquariumproducts/videos/1688014624591025/
