The embodiment of a protein skimmer apparatus comprising a float (18) controlled suction inlet valve (16), comprised of tubing, such as clear vinyl tubing, preferably horizontally mounted, centrally and predominantly severed or “cut” laterally in an upwardly direction, maintaining an elastically deformable segment acting as a pivoting axis, pivoting upwardly, on one end in communication with first tubing connector (30), in communication with first tubing (19), in communication with second tubing connector (31), in communication with a second tubing (20), in communication with third tubing connector (32), in communication with suction inlet opening of water pump elbow (17). On a second end slip fittedly connected, thereto one end of valve actuator (15). Float (18) having vertical holes therein and receiving valve actuator (15) slip fittedly projected through float (18). Suction inlet valve (16) is responsive to movement by float (18). Water pump (26) directing water into lower end of air/water chamber (13), such that water rises within air/water chamber (13), as to raise float (18) buoyantly pivoting upwardly, therefore opening suction inlet valve (16), therefore enabling airflow into water pump (26), therefore reducing water pressure governed by airflow volume, therefore establishing water level (B) in response to vertical position of float (18).