AIO Filtration recommendation

[ReeferDad93]

Currently filling my WB 50.3 AIO and getting ready to cycle. Never really seems to be a simple answer to this but do people really use the media balls or sponges? I am planning on getting a media basket down the line to replace the filter socks. What’s the best way to get the tank up and running in regards to media balls and sponges? Use during cycle? Thanks for the help!

 

[Nanojoe]

When it comes down to it, think of your rock as your main source of biological filtration. Typically we have more rock in our display than in our sumps, in your case, behind a false wall. Those are what you really want seeded as more so than not they will always be in the tank.

I personally like filter socks, skimmers, filter pads and a sponge. Some would say sponges are more of a nutrient trap (nitrate factory) just like the bio balls used back in the day. Some swear by the ceramic bio balls or bio plates (theres quite a few options now on the market) In theory they are great to have if you have minimal live rock. I had them initially in my sump but removed them. I saw no difference.

Filter floss or pads are great. They are cheap and you can just toss and replace. Sponges will need to be rinsed out as they will hold a ton of detritus. Most people shy away from sponges as its just another thing to clean .

If you chose to do the ceramic bio balls just seeding the tank with bottled bacteria will be good, along with time. It takes time for a tank to really establish. This is going beyond the initial nitrogen cycle.

Hope some of this helps. Good luck man!

 

[Tenecor Aquariums]

You should consider open cell (AquaFoam) sponges instead of filter socks. They are much easier to clean and maintain and do a better job overall.

In your situation, try using a pieces of 40 PPI foam and see how it goes. Below is an excerpt from our website. Of course, everyone has an opinion and your mileage may vary.

Why Open Cell AquaFoam is Superior to Filter Socks

The objective of aquarium filtration is to maintain healthy water quality. To do this we rely on probiotic bacteria to break down fish waste. For larger particles mechanical filtration is used.

Why Filters Clog

Overfeeding is the number one reason. Uneaten food eventually makes its way to the filter and becomes lodged there. When the water flow slows down the filter needs to be cleaned.

With filter socks this can happen quickly and be a messy nuisance. Cartridge filters can be even more bothersome since they require more steps to clean.

TIP: Reduce the load on your filter by not overfeeding your fish. Use the "Eyeball Rule" which is one fish eyeball amount of food per fish. Five fish, five fish eyeballs of food. Nine fish, nine fish eyeballs of food.

Why Tenecor uses Open Cell AquaFoam

Tenecor aquariums with AquaFoam have significantly greater capacity than filter socks or cartridge filters. Our AquaFoam filters are BIG and THICK. They also are easier to clean and last much longer. Tenecor AquaFoam has the added benefit of supporting larger bacteria colonies which increase your tank's bio-filtration capacity even more.

How to Clean Tenecor AquaFoam Filters

First, don’t clean the AquaFoam unless the water flow slows down. Remove the AquaFoam and submerge it in a container filled with RO or bottled water. Squeeze it a few times and that's it. There is no need to "deep clean" and it is okay to leave some bio gunk on the AquaFoam. Remember, DO NOT use tap water or any other water with chlorine in it because even small amounts of chlorine will kill off the probiotic bacteria..

After you place the AquaFoam back into the filter the aquarium water may turn cloudy for a while but will quickly clear up.