filter sock or no filter sock???????????

[tjl116]

i would like to get everyone's opion on this.

[Dead_Head_Reefr]

I'm just getting ready to set my tank up and have decided to add a filter sock to the end of my overflow plumbing into the sump, Just for piece of mind.

[stenaldermand]

I've always used them and they help keep my nitrates down, as many other will probably tell you. I can see the nitrate spike when I leave the sock off for a couple days. I wash my filter socks on the white cycle (hot) weekly, using a little bleach only. IMO they are a definite benefit.

Mike

[stunreefer]

It totally depends on the system... therefore I won't vote

They're great for catching excess foods and detrius that will otherwise be deposited into your sump to rot, or pulled into filters to gunk them up. In systems with very low bioload, or one in which you always turn the pumps off while feeding and wait until ALL the food has been eaten until you turn return pump back on I might not run them. Also if you're utilizing a mangrove bed or similar filter I would not use them, as you want the detrius to make it's way into the substrate.

Depending on the micron rating and how fast they clog based on your bioload, they need to be changed out evey one to five days. Its crucial that they'e changed out at appropriate times otherwise they'll do more harm than good.

Keep in mind there are other means of implementing a filter like a sock... you can use floss or a similar media on a tray in the first section of the sump, or you can skip them all together. IMO/IME both will lead to more maintenance than a sock.

Personally, I use 100 and 200 micron socks amd would recommend them to most people assuming they're capable of changing them out frequently enough. If you dont want to or cannot change them out frequently, do not use them as they'll create more problems than if you were to not use them (Nitrate factories!)

[aiu0835]

I would recommend the filter sock. I've been using it for about 2 months, and I love it. I haven't had to clean my sump/fuge since there's a lot less junk now. I wish I would have known it much sooner.

[1DeR9_3Hy]

I use it too kill bubbles from entering my sump, and that is the only reason i use one.

If i could get around it, i would.

[tjl116]

sweet people, thanks for the info. does anyone have any pic's on how they have mounted there's?

[stunreefer]

Originally Posted by tjl116

does anyone have any pic's on how they have mounted there's?

Here's my new sump... you can see the mount in the back left corner. It's a mount made by GEO I bought through PA a while back:

[Castro_Bigdog]

good post guys... I just added one to my fuge and it really helped clean up my tank real good

[tjl116]

Originally Posted by stunreefer

Here's my new sump... you can see the mount in the back left corner. It's a mount made by GEO I bought through PA a while back:

man sweet sump!

[fishgeek88]

filter socks are great, just make sure you keep it clean

[Taylor_made]

I ran without them for two years, I just recently went back to using them. They are a PITA, but I do like the polished water quality.

Dan

[MandarinMan13]

So what IS the best way to clean a filter sock?? Mine never seem to come completely clean.

[zachtos]

I used to not use socks, now I do. My skimmate production is way down becaues the sock is catching so much crap. I have never really been able to get to 0 nitrates until after I started doing this.

I use nylon socks, you can wash them in the sink. far superior to felt.

[on the spot]

Originally Posted by tjl116

...i want to make it into a pole but not sure how to do it.

I would roll it up real tight, wrap it in fiberglass cloth, then dip it in resin. Personally I'd just buy a pole. Lots easier.

Originally Posted by MandarinMan13

So what IS the best way to clean a filter sock??

Hot water wash in the washing machine will make quick work of them. I put the used ones in a pail to soak until I have a load.