Skimmers... Why are people paying thousands??? - Page 3

sjames · 11/01/2009, 05:58 AM

nothing like a good wealth envy thread to get the day started.

sminker · 11/01/2009, 07:36 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by aquariumclown

IMO, it definitely can.

I would LOVE to see some pictures to back up your claim also.

birdmike · 11/01/2009, 09:02 AM

Depending on your system needs (IE: stocking level), you will likely not need a skimmer if you can practice patience and restraint when stocking your tank. A well-balanced system I believe is far more important than a high powered skimmer.

stealle · 11/01/2009, 09:39 AM

Here is a slightlly different viewpoint as to why "paying thousands" might be worth it to some...

This hobby can be very complex. There is so much information for enthusiasts to learn. Let's face it, if you are a newbie and you want to dive into this hobby, you just can't learn enough to "dive" in in a reasonable amount of time. I have only been in the hobby for about three years, I have read several books, spent hours on the forums, and I still have plenty to learn.

I think sometimes people who have the money for these expensive skimmers, just figure "you get what you pay for" and "I don't want to spend hours and hours researching, my time is valuable. I'll just spend the money and know I got a good one." It is very difficult to judge skimmer performance. Sure, we can look a pics of skimmate, compare pumps, water flow, and airflow, but that's about all we got. Let's face it, it would be easier to just spend an hour looking through some of the threads and say "most people seem to like that skimmer, sure it's $1000, let's buy it."

There are also those people who read the threads that are going to see people who constantly upgrade their skimmer. You know "this ATB blows away my old deltec". Some people are going to spend a lot of money thinking "just buy the best the first time, instead of wasting money on the cheap ones."

Personally I'd rather people spend their valuable time researching the care of their livestock. If they want to spend a ton of money on a skimmer that's their business. It will only promote further research on skimmer technology which will eventually lead to higher performing low-end skimmers.

Runfrumu · 11/01/2009, 09:42 AM

It's just like anything. You can drive a Ford Focus, or you can drive a Ferrari. Both will get you from point A to B. It's just a matter of personal preference. I don't care if a person buys a $3000 skimmer or a $30, if they are happy with their purchase, thats all that really matters.

People are always too concerned with what the other guy is doing and what he's spending his money on. It's your money, do what you want to with it and don't worry if someone on RC think's your "crazy" for buying what you want.

stealle · 11/01/2009, 09:43 AM

Also, someone mentioned earlier in the thread about feeding less. I used to be a nano tank owner. It was common practice to feed fish once every other day. I don't like the idea of withholding food to keep good water paramters. Sure, we have to show some restraint with feedings, but I'd rather feed my livestock as heavily as possible. This might be an area where that extra 10-20% performance gain in an expensive skimmer can possibly shine through.

Runfrumu · 11/01/2009, 09:51 AM

BTW, when someone actually acts mad about someone else being able to buy a $2000 skimmer, it's always a jealousy issue. Saying someone has more money than brains is absurd. If a person has the money, what does it matter to you what they spend it on? Are you paying for it?

Misled · 11/01/2009, 10:05 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Runfrumu

Saying someone has more money than brains is absurd

I agree with this. He probably has the brains and that's why he has the money. Crap, just made myself feel stupid.

jbird69 · 11/01/2009, 10:17 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Runfrumu

Saying someone has more money than brains is absurd.

Take a look at the majority of professional athletes. The majority of professional entertainers... America in general has more money than brains with its entertainment driven economy.

In most cases, when I am shopping for a product, I like to say "buy the best quality and cry once, or buy cheap and cry every time it needs to be replaced"

With that said, do the research and see what is best for you, it may not be the top dollar item. Its silly when people pay top dollar because they believe that alone means its the best product for them. JMO

t-bone2 · 11/01/2009, 04:00 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Runfrumu

Saying someone has more money than brains is absurd.

tell that to jay leno he said on tv thats the was he buys cars.

lougotzz · 11/01/2009, 04:09 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by sminker

"Skimmers... Why are people paying thousands???"

Because they have WAY TOO much money on their hands and it makes them feel better about themselves.

That was a pretty dumb answer dude.

lougotzz · 11/01/2009, 04:19 PM

As far as that "some people have more money than brains" line, I absolutely 100 percent agree with that.
I got a cousin with more money than God, he was having his basement finished, and he was given an estimate of about 12 grand. At the end of the job the contractor turns around and says his final payment of said amount, totals 18k. My cousin stupidly pays it, and after he has been given the shaft, and finished bad mouthing him to me, about 6 months later he turns around an rehires him to fix what he put in wrong. I would also like to add, I am in contruction, the contractor was over priced at 12k. I told him this after he payed the 18 grand.
Now I couldnt care less what people do with their money, but I think that statement is true to some extent.

luther1200 · 11/01/2009, 04:30 PM

Even if it is true, its really nobody else's business how some one spends there own money. And the whole comment is very transparent, as jealousy, IMO. Its like saying somebody is dumb for buying a lavish house or car.

ser_renely · 11/01/2009, 04:41 PM

interesting.... I would think two of the same skimmer would be an interesting idea...

lougotzz · 11/01/2009, 04:46 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by luther1200

Even if it is true, its really nobody else's business how some one spends there own money. And the whole comment is very transparent, as jealousy, IMO. Its like saying somebody is dumb for buying a lavish house or car.

Oh no I dont care what anyone does with their money. Thats like my whole political view point (flaming conservative here), Im just saying, some people spend their money with out thinking. I dont think its stupid to buy a car like a Lamborghini. I think it is stupid though to be taken advantage of, and then go back for more like my example above. Someone buying a 2 thousand dollar skimmer does not make them stupid in my eyes. I also agree with you as its jealousy. I just think there are times were that comment is true.

luther1200 · 11/01/2009, 04:53 PM

I got ya.

mikeatjac · 11/01/2009, 04:56 PM

I guess I could get 3 cheap skimmers and a sump to handle them all. On second thought I will just get one expense skimmer. It amazes me how few people know what a real skimmer can do.

swiseman · 11/01/2009, 04:57 PM

I don't really get the point of this thread. People buy expensive skimmers because they can. Thats it. The same reasoning can be applied to the house you live in, the car you drive, or the restaurant you and your spouse enjoy.

Imagine the backlash there would be if someone with a Bubble King 600 started a thread asking, "How do People Keep their Tanks Alive with Skimmers Costing Less Than $1000".

stealle · 11/01/2009, 04:57 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by ser_renely

interesting.... I would think two of the same skimmer would be an interesting idea...

I've seen a few members here on RC run two skimmers.

Quote:

Originally Posted by lougotzz

I dont think its stupid to buy a car like a Lamborghini.

... but it would be stupid to pay 50% more for the Lamborghini than what it can normally be purchased for. (just sayin' I agree with lougotzz's statement above)

sminker · 11/01/2009, 05:00 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by lougotzz

That was a pretty dumb answer dude.

thanks!!

i think its awesome how everyone takes my comment out of context. whats wrong with having too much money and buying stuff to make you feel better? heck between me and wife i couldnt even tell you how much useless crap we buy....lol

sminker · 11/01/2009, 05:03 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by mikeatjac

I guess I could get 3 cheap skimmers and a sump to handle them all. On second thought I will just get one expense skimmer. It amazes me how few people know what a real skimmer can do.

Im pretty sure a real skimmer can, umm, hmm, let me think, oh yeah!! SKIM!!!!

11/01/2009, 09:42 AM	#55
Runfrumu Hi Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: NC Posts: 1,014	It's just like anything. You can drive a Ford Focus, or you can drive a Ferrari. Both will get you from point A to B. It's just a matter of personal preference. I don't care if a person buys a $3000 skimmer or a $30, if they are happy with their purchase, thats all that really matters. People are always too concerned with what the other guy is doing and what he's spending his money on. It's your money, do what you want to with it and don't worry if someone on RC think's your "crazy" for buying what you want. __________________ Red Sea Max 130d and 125 gallon mixed reef. Current Tank Info: 125 gallon oceanic tank, Lighthouse Pro XLS, 72" outer orbit fixture, H&S 150-F2000/1 skimmer, H&S 110 Calcium Reactor, Tunze 7096, 2 Tunze 6105's , Tunze Osmolator, Prime 1/4hp drop-in chiller. 5 years running. Red Sea Max, 3 years.

11/01/2009, 09:43 AM	#56
stealle Premium Member Join Date: Nov 2006 Posts: 501	Also, someone mentioned earlier in the thread about feeding less. I used to be a nano tank owner. It was common practice to feed fish once every other day. I don't like the idea of withholding food to keep good water paramters. Sure, we have to show some restraint with feedings, but I'd rather feed my livestock as heavily as possible. This might be an area where that extra 10-20% performance gain in an expensive skimmer can possibly shine through. Last edited by stealle; 11/01/2009 at 09:49 AM.

11/01/2009, 09:51 AM	#57
Runfrumu Hi Join Date: Aug 2007 Location: NC Posts: 1,014	BTW, when someone actually acts mad about someone else being able to buy a $2000 skimmer, it's always a jealousy issue. Saying someone has more money than brains is absurd. If a person has the money, what does it matter to you what they spend it on? Are you paying for it? __________________ Red Sea Max 130d and 125 gallon mixed reef. Current Tank Info: 125 gallon oceanic tank, Lighthouse Pro XLS, 72" outer orbit fixture, H&S 150-F2000/1 skimmer, H&S 110 Calcium Reactor, Tunze 7096, 2 Tunze 6105's , Tunze Osmolator, Prime 1/4hp drop-in chiller. 5 years running. Red Sea Max, 3 years.

11/01/2009, 04:30 PM	#63
luther1200 Premium Member Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: NJ, shore Posts: 4,376	Even if it is true, its really nobody else's business how some one spends there own money. And the whole comment is very transparent, as jealousy, IMO. Its like saying somebody is dumb for buying a lavish house or car. __________________ Matt, 65G reef tank Current Tank Info: 65g reef, mix of sps, lps, few softies. Hoping to upgrade within the year.

11/01/2009, 04:41 PM	#64
ser_renely Registered Member Join Date: Mar 2008 Posts: 1,820	interesting.... I would think two of the same skimmer would be an interesting idea... __________________ RIP: Osc. Clown - Ammonia, YW GobY - overflow, YW Goby - Pistol shrimp, Firefish - acclimation. 5 Fire fish - pistol shrimp, Mandarin - Pistol shrimp!!!!! Current Tank Info: 60g Cube, 15g sump/fuge,Tunze 9010 skimmer, Reefbreeders Photon 16" - 2 Osc. Clowns,2 Lyretail Anthias, Blue Chromis, mp20, mp10....another DAMN pistol shrimp!

11/01/2009, 05:58 AM	#51
sjames Registered Member Join Date: Jan 2008 Location: PA Posts: 675	nothing like a good wealth envy thread to get the day started.

11/01/2009, 09:02 AM	#53
birdmike Registered Member Join Date: Sep 2008 Location: Iowa City, IA Posts: 11	Depending on your system needs (IE: stocking level), you will likely not need a skimmer if you can practice patience and restraint when stocking your tank. A well-balanced system I believe is far more important than a high powered skimmer.

11/01/2009, 09:39 AM	#54
stealle Premium Member Join Date: Nov 2006 Posts: 501	Here is a slightlly different viewpoint as to why "paying thousands" might be worth it to some... This hobby can be very complex. There is so much information for enthusiasts to learn. Let's face it, if you are a newbie and you want to dive into this hobby, you just can't learn enough to "dive" in in a reasonable amount of time. I have only been in the hobby for about three years, I have read several books, spent hours on the forums, and I still have plenty to learn. I think sometimes people who have the money for these expensive skimmers, just figure "you get what you pay for" and "I don't want to spend hours and hours researching, my time is valuable. I'll just spend the money and know I got a good one." It is very difficult to judge skimmer performance. Sure, we can look a pics of skimmate, compare pumps, water flow, and airflow, but that's about all we got. Let's face it, it would be easier to just spend an hour looking through some of the threads and say "most people seem to like that skimmer, sure it's $1000, let's buy it." There are also those people who read the threads that are going to see people who constantly upgrade their skimmer. You know "this ATB blows away my old deltec". Some people are going to spend a lot of money thinking "just buy the best the first time, instead of wasting money on the cheap ones." Personally I'd rather people spend their valuable time researching the care of their livestock. If they want to spend a ton of money on a skimmer that's their business. It will only promote further research on skimmer technology which will eventually lead to higher performing low-end skimmers.

11/01/2009, 04:19 PM	#62
lougotzz Moved On Join Date: Jan 2009 Location: PA Posts: 1,524	As far as that "some people have more money than brains" line, I absolutely 100 percent agree with that. I got a cousin with more money than God, he was having his basement finished, and he was given an estimate of about 12 grand. At the end of the job the contractor turns around and says his final payment of said amount, totals 18k. My cousin stupidly pays it, and after he has been given the shaft, and finished bad mouthing him to me, about 6 months later he turns around an rehires him to fix what he put in wrong. I would also like to add, I am in contruction, the contractor was over priced at 12k. I told him this after he payed the 18 grand. Now I couldnt care less what people do with their money, but I think that statement is true to some extent.

11/01/2009, 04:53 PM	#66
luther1200 Premium Member Join Date: Feb 2009 Location: NJ, shore Posts: 4,376	I got ya. __________________ Matt, 65G reef tank Current Tank Info: 65g reef, mix of sps, lps, few softies. Hoping to upgrade within the year.

11/01/2009, 04:56 PM	#67
mikeatjac Registered Member Join Date: Aug 2004 Location: Jacksonville, Florida Posts: 2,433	I guess I could get 3 cheap skimmers and a sump to handle them all. On second thought I will just get one expense skimmer. It amazes me how few people know what a real skimmer can do. __________________ Red Sea Reefer 525 - BK 160- G5 Blue - GHL

11/01/2009, 04:57 PM	#68
swiseman Premium Member Join Date: Jun 2004 Location: Moncton, New Brunswick Posts: 407	I don't really get the point of this thread. People buy expensive skimmers because they can. Thats it. The same reasoning can be applied to the house you live in, the car you drive, or the restaurant you and your spouse enjoy. Imagine the backlash there would be if someone with a Bubble King 600 started a thread asking, "How do People Keep their Tanks Alive with Skimmers Costing Less Than $1000". __________________ If my wife asks, it was only $20. Current Tank Info: 220 Gal SPS Reef, 3 x Ecotech Radion LED, 66 gal sump, Vertex Alpha 250 Kone Skimmer, GEO 6-18 Ca Reactor, 2 x Tunze 6105, 1 x Vertex MP40W, Profilux III EX Last edited by swiseman; 11/01/2009 at 05:02 PM.