Several questions about skimming.

[MizTanks]

What is a needle-wheel impeller pump and are they good? Is having a skimmer inside my fuge actually doing my tank any good? I know most skimmers are ran in tank or in sump. I don't have either option. I'm not worried about my tank or anything as all is well. Just wanting to learn.

[rcombs]

i heard that if you do regular water changes and dont overfeed you should have no problem with not having one. i know some people that didnt have one and they had no problem. although i think it may help lower the ammonia level and other things a lil.

[thepanfish]

A needle wheel skimmer has a pump with a modified impeller that has little sticks on it to beat the air entering the skimmer from the venturi and the water from the pump into very fine bubbles.
http://www.championlighting.com/pics/proskimmerpics/ASM/sedra5000_impeller.jpg

Also, in response to rcombs, I was told the same thing when I entered the hobby, but after buying a skimmer I can confidentally say no reefer should be without one. I have seen very noticable changes in water quality and improved overal health of my system.

Miz:
You have a 34 Solana correct? This skimmer will fit in the rear chamber and does a good job (based on many reviews) of removing skimate.
Hydor Koralia Nano/Slim-Skim Internal Protein Skimmer (http://www.marinedepot.com/ps_viewitem.aspx?idproduct=HD00771&child=HD00771&utm_source=mdcsegooglebase2&utm_medium=cse&utm_campaign=mdcsegooglebase2&utm_content=PST2-HD00771)
review
Hydor’s Slim Skim Nano is about as stealth as an internal skimmer can be (http://reefbuilders.com/2010/12/01/hydors-slim-skim-nano-stealth-internal-skimmer/)
and a video
Hydor’s Slim Skim Nano performer protein skimmer action video (http://reefbuilders.com/2010/12/21/hydors-slim-skim-nano-performer-protein-skimmer-action-video/)

[MizTanks]

No Solana-just a 26g bow front with the CPR HOB Aquafuge. Dimensions: 19" L x 4.5" W x 12" H

[thepanfish]

No Solana-just a 26g bow front with the CPR HOB Aquafuge. Dimensions: 19" L x 4.5" W x 12" H

I think it would fit in there

[MizTanks]

I think it would fit in there

Now I'm excited :) I just may be able to put the Hydor slim skim in my tank. It would enable me to remove the pre-skimmer box I've been using. Since the slim skim has the surface skim capability I won't need the box no more. Now I need to find out how much clearance (head room) the skimmer needs. As my lights sit on my tank, with about 2" from tank rim to lights.

[thepanfish]

Glad I could help Jamie!

[MizTanks]

Glad I could help Jamie!

I'm glad too! Thanks TPF :)