Skimming Tanks - what do you use and How do you do it?

[Adrian Quiney WI]

I sieve from my extractor into a 5 gallon buckets and then pour into my 5 gallon bottling bucket. What is the best way to deal with the waxy scum on the top? I am looking for an efficient way to get it off.
In the past I have just filled until the wax appears, then stopped filling and added honey. After doing 15 gallons I then washed out the bucket. I figure there must be a better way, and someone has the answer.

[honeyman46408]

I have read where some folks put plastic wrap on top of the foam and lift it off, I have never tried it.

[Vance G]

I bought a 35 gallon tank and wish it was larger. I let the honey settle in it for a day or better in 90 degree temps. I skim it and then fill my bottler from the gate on the bottom and hopefully repeat many times. I think I need to go to the coke plant and buy a couple syrup barrells.

[Adrian Quiney WI]

I think I'll try that plastic wrap trick and post if it works or not. It sounds low risk.

[paintingpreacher]

I use the plastic wrap. Works pretty well for me. Usally takes two are three peices to remove the foam in a five gallon bucket. Some of the foam will sink below the surface so it works best to repeat after a few hours. After the second trip the foam is pretty well gone.

[Adrian Quiney WI]

Thanks for the "How to".

[Adrian Quiney WI]

I tried it tonight, not the best test as there wasn't too much wax. However, it did pick some up pretty easily.

[sqkcrk]

When skimming tanks or barrels I use a spackling knife from the hardware store. Or a mortar trowel. When I am skimming my bottling tank, the one I use to warm the honey for straining before bottling, I use a pancake flipper.

If you are skimming buckets, I would suggest a rubber spatula.