Skimmer ratings are subjective at best. Skimmer manufacturers are known to over rate their skimmers capability.
Another thing to keep in mind is that Euro-Reef was started by two guys. For whatever reason, one of them split off and began making ASM skimmers.
ASM skimmers are for all intents and purposes Euro-Reef skimmers with some slight differences. They both use the same pumps and and are built similarly. ASM uses different unions for the neck and is made from less expensive acrylic than the higher end ER's, but they are basically the same skimmer.
ER recently (within the last 3 years) revised their skimmer ratings, and actually lowered them somewhat. ASM uses the old ER ratings.
With that in mind, I would suggest looking at the skimmer dimensions and what pumps they use to get as close as possible (for comparisons sake of similar models between ASM and ER) and then I'd suggest going with ER's more conservative ratings than ASM's.
For example...the ER skimmer that Krish is reccomending is:
22 inches tall, 5 inches in diameter, and is powered by a Sedra 3500. This skimmer is rated for up to 80 gallons per ER. ER uses either Dolphin or Sedra submersible pumps and refers to them as SP series. I asked them about this via email and that is what they stated in the reply. I can post the email if needed.
http://www.euro-reef.com/products-skimmerstechspec.shtml
http://www.euro-reef.com/csrs80specs.shtml
The ASM skimmer ReefDaddy is suggesting is:
19 inches tall, 5.5 inches in diameter, and is powered by a Sedra 2500, which is a smaller pump than the 3500. The number is a reference to the pumps flow rating. The Sedra 2500 pushes 250 gph in stock form, (less w/a needlewheel impeller for skimmer) and the Sedra 3500 pushes 350 gph in stock form, (again, less w/a needlewheel impeller for skimmer). This skimmer is rated for up 100 gallons per ASM.
http://www.aquariumextreme.com/mm5/...e_Code=AE&Product_Code=ASMG1&Category_Code=PS
Info on Sedra Pumps....
http://www.customaquatic.com/customaquatic/subsubcategorypage.asp?subcatindexid=wp-wp-s1
When looking at both of these skimmers side by side, the ASM is shorter by 3 inches, wider by 0.5 inch, and has a smaller pump.....and its rated for a larger system?
Both skimmers are reliable, quiet, efficient, and easy to use and set up. Both skimmers are being sold for the same price. And both are currently being sold w/ free shipping through Aquarium Extreme, (ASM) and Premium Aquatics, (ER).
The ASM is made w/ extruded acrylic, which is less expensive and not as durable as the cell cast acrylic the ER is made of. However, the ASM is far from fragile, it just wont take the abuse the ER will.
So in the end, I would state that the ASM G1 and the ER CS-80 will essentially handle the same size system. Its up to you to decide which skimmer you'd rather own. Both will serve you well.
Nick
