Free Skimmer, should I use it?

[RedSkaNite]

I got a free Prizm skimmer from a friend. I'm planning on setting up a 10 or 15H nano. I've read the advice articles here and they say to go skimmerless.

 

Should I use it?

Maybe just use it for circulation and somewhere to put a heater and charcoal?

Or just keep it for when I get a bigger reef?

 

Also- I plan on using LR, but I dont want a DSB over an inch or so, I find them kinda Unnatractive. Would I need the skimmer to compensate for the loss of filtration from having a shallow sand bed.

 

*Be nice Dave*

[kriot]

if you have one, use it. its like insurance for your tank and keeps everything nice an clean.

 

korona

[Metznreef]

definatly use it. it pulls lots of gunk outa my tank and i've yet to have any ammonia, nitrites, or nitrates.

[jjharrisx4]

Actually, in a 15g tank you're not geting that much benefit from a DSB anyway so you're ok with a 1/2 - 1 inch. Make sure you keep it clean though or detritus accumulation will cause nitrates to raise. In my opinion, I'd use the skimmer. Why not...you've got it, and it won't hurt the tank so go for it. I don't have a skimmer on my 15g tall but if I had a spare I'd put it to work.

 

The LR, if you have plenty, will compensate for any mechanical filtration you can get. The natural way is best, hands down. Skimmers are real helpful though!

 

Good luck!