when to use a skimmer

[trumpet snail]

hi all i just set up a 200L marine aquarium i have had a fresh water for a long time .i no how cycling works and how a skimmer works but not sure when to use it .do i use a skimmer when cycling will it just take longer for cycling .if so when will i start to use it and how often . do i leave it run all the time or just 12 haurs a day . the tank i am seting up is a fishless cycling and fish only tank. thanks for your help

 

[BIGgourami]

no..
using it would eat up the ammonia and organics that you need to actually cycle the tank..

you can have it running, just close the air valve and it will work just like a powerhead

 

[amehel0]

ummmm actually use my skimmers when cycling and they barely eat up amonia. i think that although there is a no need for one whilst there is no fish i would put one in a week before fish.

 

[Reefscape]

I would not bother running it untill there is a proper bioload in the tank...really dont see a point..Once the cycle is done, and fish are in there, its commonly a 24/7 device..