Cloudy water after sump install

Willbiker · May 7, 2020

Hi all.

My tank has been up and running for a couple of months with a canister filter with no cloudy water. Total flow about 11x tank volume. I now have Installed a siphon overflow down to a sump.

I have introduced another powerhead with a venturi permanently sucking from siphon overflow and then there is the new return pump so flow rate is now 19x.

My problem is cloudy water! I can only think it's the sand however there are no visible particles. It must be sand dust as I didnt rinse the sand ( I bought it as prerinsed) I've tried to adjust the powerheads to slow down collective movement which has helped slightly.

What do you suggest I do? Leave it and let it clear gradually with water changes? How have others dealt with cloudy water caused by sand?

Darsh · May 7, 2020

When did you install the sump?
New sand could take a few days to clear up.
Any livestock in the tank? Are they showing any signs of discomfort?

GabeM · May 7, 2020

If you kicked up sand and made it cloudy it will eventually settle on its own. a sock filter or filter floss will expedite.

Willbiker · May 7, 2020

Sump was installed 1 and a half days a go with initially a high flow rate but I have dialed it down now.

I have 2 small clowns and about 10 cleanup crew in 625l tank. The clowns seem fine as it's not that bad. See pic

However I used to be able to see right to the end length ways. I will leave it for a week or so and see how it goes. If it doesnt clear, I'll try some more substantial water changes.

Willbiker · May 7, 2020

I do have a 100 micron sock on it currently but not sure thay will catch anything as I cant even see the sand particles floating around. It's super fine. Maybe I'll chuck some floss in the flow to see if that helps