Is the inside of the neck of a protein skimmer supposed to get dirty?

[Porcupine Reefer]

I have a protein skimmer that is taking waste out of my aquarium, but not only is waste in the collection cup, but its also collecting on the inside of the skimmers neck making a thick sludge, is that supposed to happen? My tank is a heavy bioload system that has a porcupine puffer, snowflake eel, melanurus wrasse, blue hippo tang and clownfish (one of each). If the skimmer is being overloaded does it mean I have to upgrade?

 

[dedragon]

depends how fast the skimmer cup is fulling up if you need to upgrade, but you will always need to clean a skimmer neck over time

 

[Sisterlimonpot]

That's normal. Years back the popular way to solve for that was an automated squeegee.

There was discussion about how skimmate builds up on the neck prevents the natural flow of bubbles. But as long as you're cleaning it as part of your normal routine, you'll be fine.

 

[Sean Clark]

This is why I use an automated skimmer neck cleaner. One of the best purchases I have made.

 

[Glenner’sreef]

It may be running a bit “dry”. But a win is a win.