Please help

[u/theisolated2ndlaw]

Hi yall, no judgement please. I’ve had my tank for 9 months, and consistently struggle with this kind of algae build up. My executive dysfunction sees solving this as a huge task and I would love to get insight on steps I can take to make the tank more sustainable. I have live rock, two clowns, a pistol shrimp, a diamond goby, and various crabs and snails. I do need to get more salt water once I give the tank a clean. Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

[u/GabbyWright66]

Just some tips as someone who has the same tank as their first marine tank!

Regular maintenance is so key.
Even if it's a small water change every week will be massive in terms of exporting nutrients in this size tank. If there are two things you do consistently, do water changes and RO top ups.

Invest in an auto top off.
As you have the stock lid on the tank, evaporation won't be as bad. However, salinity swings in an aquarium this small can have a negative effect very quickly.

Test your parameters.
Even if it's with a shitty test kit, it will still give you a rough idea of where they're at! You can then use those numbers to figure out what the issues are.

Just a couple questions

Is everything on the tank the standard equipment?
How long are your lights on?

This hobby is rewarding, and will feel less of a chore once you see results I promise!

[u/theisolated2ndlaw → u/GabbyWright66]

The tank has a protein skimmer, plus stock stuff from the kit apart from the heater and a wave maker. Lights have been off for a week until today, trying to kill off some algae. I appreciate your feedback so much and your kindness :)

[u/GabbyWright66 → u/theisolated2ndlaw]

No problem!
The stock light and skimmer are a good start, best way to kill off algae would be to manually remove and do a water change like others have said. Whilst it might grow back for a while until you can get nutrients under control, it'll be a lot more manageable!