Deltec orange tap blocked? | The Aquarium Solution

Deltec orange tap blocked?

Question:

Hey Guys,

I've had a MCE600 skimmer for some time but for the last 6 months the skimmer has been under performing. After cleaning it with a dilute vinegar bath I noticed whilst looking into the red-grey air valve and opening it to the 2 o'clock position there was, what appears to be a blockage.

From the attached image, can you confirm that this is indeed a blockage and not a piece of rubber that is meant to be there.

Many Thanks

Nigel

Answer:

Hi Nigel

The tap looks fine, it is designed so the internals rotate and restrict the air via a rubber O-ring that turns within the tap which is what you can see.

Other taps work by turning an orifice within the tap barrel but the Deltec supplied taps work as above so can catch you out if you expect to look through the open tap.

With regards to reduced performance this may be down to low nutrient levels, low salinity or general water chemistry.

Certain additives and foods can also reduce skimming. When you cleaned the skimmer did you clean out the venturi with a drill bit to remove stubborn

build up?

This link may help with regards to cleaning:

http://www.theaquariumsolution.com/maintaining-mc-and-ap-skimmers-aquabee-pump

regards Tony