8 Best HOB Protein Skimmers of 2023 Reviewed

Maintaining the water quality in your fish tank is vital for the survival of your fish friends. Now, you can make it happen with the right protein skimmer. Also known as foam fractionators, these water filtration devices will ensure that the water stays clean and the fishes can live a long life. They also keep […]

Jun 26, 2023 - 09:17

8 Best HOB Protein Skimmers of 2023 Reviewed

Maintaining the water quality in your fish tank is vital for the survival of your fish friends. Now, you can make it happen with the right protein skimmer.

Also known as foam fractionators, these water filtration devices will ensure that the water stays clean and the fishes can live a long life. They also keep the nitrate levels in check, and you will find the water to be more clear.

Choosing a HOB or a ‘hang on back’ model will ensure that you utilize the least amount of space possible. We had a shortage of space inside the tank, and that’s when the HOB versions came to our rescue.

But the problem is that there are multiple choices in the market, and choosing one can be quite challenging.

To save you from a stressful expedition, this comprehensive and unbiased list of 8 exceptional options has been curated. We have also included a buyer’s guide to help you choose the right one for your needs.

So, without further ado, let’s dive in!

Best HOB Protein Skimmers

Corals in a Marine Aquarium.

Here is the list of the 8 best HOB protein skimmers that you can use to keep the water in your fish tank clean and healthy.

1. AquaMaxx HOB-1.5 Hang-On-Back Protein Skimmer

In the first position, we have the AquaMaxx HOB-1.5 Hang-On-Back Protein Skimmer, which is known for its brilliant performance. It will help eliminate all your algae problems inside the tank and will give you a sparkling clean aquarium to boast of.

RUIYUXIN USB AquaMaxx HOB-1.5 Hang-On-Back Protein Skimmer

AquaMaxx HOB-1.5 protein skimmers is easy to setup and...
Efficient, durable and reliable, Simple to set up and...

Why Did We Like It?

We loved the upgraded AquaMaxx Shark pump, which could draw up ample amounts of air and break it down into bubbles. This boosted the overall performance of the fish tank. Furthermore, the pump is placed inside the skimmer to save space and improve efficiency. If you are expecting the pump to be noisy, rest assured that you will have a completely silent experience.

Besides, it is very easy to set up and maintain. We found a collection cup that can be easily removed and cleaned separately.

It is also compatible with 90 gallons of water, making it fit for small to medium-sized aquariums. We were thrilled with the versatility of this option.

Lastly, it works very quickly and takes no time to fit in. We attached the skimmer in the morning, after which we fed our fish. Immediately the skimmer started working, and a thick layer of foam formed on the top.

What Could’ve Been Better?

Our only problem with this product was that the manual was not very clear. We had to watch videos online to understand how to assemble the parts. The process in itself is not very difficult, but easier and more detailed instructions in the installation guide could have saved us more time.

Pros

AquaMaxx SHARK 1.0 pump used
Comes with a compact design
Does not make noise
Equipped with a drain fitting

Cons

Manual could be better

Dimensions: 7.5″ x 3.5″ x 17″ | Weight: 7.8lbs | Capacity: Up to 90 Gallons | Material: Cell-Cast Acrylic

2. Coral Vue Technology BH-1000 Octopus with External Pump

In the second position, we have a unit that works very well with tight spaces. The Coral Vue Technology BH-1000 Octopus with External Pump can easily fit behind the tank because of its compact nature. It will also not heat your aquarium while functioning, keeping the water temperature in control.

CoralVue Technology BH-1000 Octopus with External 1000 Pump...

Coral vue octopus with external 1000 pump 100gal
This design also allows for easy removal of the pump for...

Why Did We Like It?

This product can deal with a large capacity of 100 gallons and will work with medium to large-sized tanks very well. Also, it will hang behind the outer wall with the water pump just under the skimmer.

Another great advantage is the easy cleaning process. Most models do not allow complete dismantling, and that makes it difficult to clean some parts. But here, the body can be taken apart entirely, and can hence, be cleaned adequately.

Not only that, but the process of setting it up is also straightforward. You will be getting a booklet with the pack, which will guide you throughout. Follow it carefully, and you will be done within half an hour.

Made with high-grade acrylic, the body is sturdy and is 8 inches wide, 17 inches tall, and 3.5 inches deep.

What Could’ve Been Better?

We felt that the constant humming sound could be annoying if the aquarium is placed near your bed. While it skims well, the noise can be bothersome, so we suggest that you keep the tank at a distance from the sofas or beds. The best place would be to keep it in the hallway.

Pros

Easy to clean
Set-up process is easy
Incredibly sturdy
Cost-effective

Cons

Pump is noisy

Dimensions: 3.5″ x 8″ x 17″ | Weight: N/A | Capacity: 100 Gallons | Material: Acrylic

3. Coralife 05271 Super Skimmer with Pump

In the 3rd position, we have the Coralife 05271 Super Skimmer, which is known for its unique patented needle wheel aspiration system. This is also popular for the different models that take care of aquariums with a capacity of 65 gallons to 220 gallons covering big and small versions.