Surface Skimmer Inlet

Move away from ugly plastic inlets and outlets and create an elegant look to your aquarium instantly.

This glass skimmer lily pipe also has the added benefit of manually removing oils and debris from the surface of your aquarium, resulting in an ultra clean aquarium from all angles.

Comes in 2 pipe sizes

- 12/16mm
- 16/22mm

Fast and free shipping within the U.S. on orders over $49!

Worldwide free shipping on orders over $199!

What does a lily pipe surface skimmer actually do?

It removes the oily film (biofilm) that forms on the water surface, improving oxygen exchange and making your aquarium look crystal clear.

Do I need a surface skimmer if my tank already has a filter?

Yes — most filters pull water from below the surface. A surface skimmer specifically targets the top layer where film builds up.

Will it make my water clearer instantly?

In most cases, yes. You’ll usually see a visible improvement within minutes to a few hours as the surface film is removed.

Is it safe for shrimp and small fish?

Generally yes, but you should use a guard or sponge pre-filter if you have baby shrimp or very small fish to prevent them being sucked in.

Does it affect CO₂ levels in planted tanks?

Slightly — increased surface agitation can cause minor CO₂ loss, but most setups benefit more from the improved oxygen exchange and cleanliness.

Can I adjust the flow of the surface skimmer?

Yes. Most models allow you to adjust how much water is pulled from the surface vs the main intake.

Will it reduce algae?

Indirectly. By removing organic waste and improving gas exchange, it helps create a cleaner, more stable environment that discourages algae growth.

Does it make noise?

High-quality glass lily pipes are usually silent. Noise only happens if air is being sucked in due to improper water level or flow setup.

How often do I need to clean it?

Typically once every 1–2 weeks. Surface skimmers can collect debris quickly, so regular cleaning keeps performance high.

Can I use it with any canister filter?

Yes — as long as the pipe size matches your filter hose (commonly 12/16mm or 16/22mm).

Will it work on all tank sizes?

Most are designed for nano to medium tanks, but larger tanks may require stronger flow or dual intakes.

Why is my skimmer not pulling surface film properly?

Usually due to low flow, incorrect water level, or the float mechanism being stuck or dirty.

Is glass better than plastic for lily pipes?

Glass looks significantly cleaner and doesn’t yellow over time, making it ideal for aquascaping display tanks.