/ Register

  1. Do you have an old account but can't access it?


    See Accessing your GIRS Account or Contact Us - We are here to help!

What media to use?

Discussion in 'General Discussion' started by RCreefer, Jan 8, 2012.

  1. Jan 8, 2012 #1
    RCreefer

    RCreefer Guest

    Ratings:
    +0 / 0 / -0
    Hello! I'm trying to figure out what exactly to use in my sump for the filter section.
    There is a section that has a little box with the remnants of carbon so I went ahead and bought some matrix carbon to fill it. Behind it is a big sponge, in front, separate section, is the fuge. My question is, do I need to be getting a gfo into that section? Purigen? Anything else at all? If so, just put it in a bag or what?
    The sump order runs (by section) intake, fuge, filter media, open section? (believe they had probes in this before me), return.
    Also I'm getting ready to fill the tank and let it sit for a long as it needs to in order to cycle. Do I have any of this media in before cuc/fish when its only lr/ls or no? Under the impression not to but a little foggy.
    Pretty noob questions I know but just some stuff I couldn't quite clear up myself.

    Thanks for your time!
     
  2. Jan 8, 2012 #2
    Actuary Adel, IA

    Actuary Well-Known ReefKeeper

    705
    Adel, IA
    Ratings:
    +145 / 1 / -0
    You can put GFO and Carbon into filter bags and after rinsing them to get the dust out place them into that section of your sump. Some prefer to actively run carbon and GFO inside of reactors. I run mine passively in a high flow area of the sump and it works great. I would let the tank cycle, then run the carbon and GFO and then go on to livestock. I don't think you'd have a problem cycling with carbon and GFO running though... you just may want to replace them a little sooner than you typically would if you ran them during cycling.
     
  3. Jan 8, 2012 #3
    Sponge Marshalltown, IA

    Sponge Expert Reefkeeper Vendor

    3,347
    Marshalltown, IA
    Ratings:
    +233 / 1 / -0
    No need to use any gac or gfo when tank is cycling...just wasting it imo. Let the tank cycle and then add a fish, Are you using RO/DI? Just ask away with any questions you may have...it's easier to do it right the first time than try to correct a mistake(s)...cheaper too :=0)
     
  4. Jan 9, 2012 #4
    RCreefer

    RCreefer Guest

    Ratings:
    +0 / 0 / -0
    Great, that settles that question! Yes, I will be using ro/di water does that effect what I need to use in the sump after my tank has cycled?

    Yeah, I've been doing research for awhile now and am surfing the internet daily but sometimes I just can't seem to find the answer that applies to me, and you're right, it can be expensive to just make your own decisions in the hobby ha ha
     
  5. Jan 9, 2012 #5
    Actuary Adel, IA

    Actuary Well-Known ReefKeeper

    705
    Adel, IA
    Ratings:
    +145 / 1 / -0
    Using RO/DI won't have an impact on what you use in your sump.. it's just important for reefs to make sure you don't have heavy metals in your water that would harm reef inhabitants. Also important for removing PO4.
     
  6. Jan 9, 2012 #6
    Sponge Marshalltown, IA

    Sponge Expert Reefkeeper Vendor

    3,347
    Marshalltown, IA
    Ratings:
    +233 / 1 / -0
    You are doing things right there RCreefer!:=0) Many start out not using RO/DI water and then have major problems thereafter. No, RO/DI water will not affect anything negatively; that's what you want to use. If youy give us some more info about what your setup is. or ging to be, there are many here that can help. Keep posting... ;+) !!!
     
  7. Jan 9, 2012 #7
    RCreefer

    RCreefer Guest

    Ratings:
    +0 / 0 / -0
    I'm glad you think I'm on the right track, phew!

    My setup so far consists of a 27g drilled Marineland with a tenish gallon sump. The sump has a great little fuge area and a maxi-jet 1800 return and I have a Koralia powerhead, not 100% on the specifics on it as I got the tank as is from another member on here. He really set me up and I think I'll be fairly well off because of him!

    The lighting in it is one MH with two T5 actinic bulbs.

    My plan is to start a build thread with lots of pictures soon when things get a little more interesting as I intend on having a variety of sps, lps, and softies (think I'm ok for all of that). A few fish too!

    I've learned tons but learn more every day, its crazy. Stay tuned and I appreciate everyone help!
     

Share This Page

  1. This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register.
    By continuing to use this site, you are consenting to our use of cookies.
    Accept Learn More...