IceCap K3-130INT In-Sump Protein Skimmer

The IceCap K3-130INT is an in-sump protein skimmer built around a controllable DC pinwheel pump, offering a level of tuning flexibility that fixed-speed skimmers cannot match. The DCAIR 1.0 pump provides 10 distinct power settings, letting you dial in air-to-water ratio to suit your system's current bioload rather than running the skimmer at a fixed output that may or may not suit your tank at a given moment. A built-in feed timer further simplifies daily routines by pausing skimmer operation during feeding without manual intervention.

At a footprint of just 7.3" × 5.6" and a total height of 19.25", the K3-130INT is designed specifically for hobbyists who need capable skimming in a sump section that cannot accommodate a larger body. The 5" body diameter keeps the reaction chamber appropriately sized for the rated tank range while the submerged, pipeless output eliminates the plumbing connections that can introduce microbubble issues or leak points on competing designs.

Bioload matching is worth understanding before selecting any skimmer. IceCap rates the K3-130INT at 140 gallons for lightly stocked systems, 90 gallons for medium bioload, and 60 gallons for heavily fed or heavily stocked tanks. Choosing a skimmer sized to your actual bioload — not just tank volume — is the most reliable way to get consistent skimmate production. If your system trends toward heavy feeding or dense fish stocking, sizing up is the conservative choice.

Setup is straightforward: the K3-130INT is designed for sumps with a water depth between 6 and 9 inches. Acrylic construction keeps the body lightweight, and the pump controller mounts externally for easy access to power and timer adjustments. At 10 watts, operating costs are minimal relative to the skimming capacity offered.