GFO w/out reactor?

[Eienna]

Is it possible to run GFO in an HOB filter rather than a reactor? I'm having major phosphate problems. I know why but I need to manage it until the rockwork is done leaching; I can't afford new rock and I found some GFO on clearance.

 

[robbrouse]

Yes it can be done, but not sure you'll get a lot of tumbling. When it starts to clump together change it. It can also be ran in a filter sock, but a think a HOB would be the better bet out of the two.

What GFO are you going to be using?

 

[mcarroll]

Depends, but generally should be no problem.

Really, the only potential "issue" is that there may be a lot of fines, depending on the grade of GFO. The fines will quickly rinse out of a bag and into the tank in a power filter. I say "issue" because at worst this would be a cosmetic issue - wouldn't hurt anything.

And the simple way to avoid this is to rinse your media in a little RODI before use as needed.

Most GFO products are at least somewhat granulated to minimize this effect, but I have seen some that's extremely powdery.

Good find!

-Matt

P.S. Use small doses and replace them frequently (which will hopefully be following the product directions) vs filling the bag with one big load. Better all the way around.

 

[robbrouse]

Good call forgot about the fines. I ran about a gallon of water thought my reactor before I put the return back in my tank.

You will need to find a way to rinse it.

 

[Eienna]

Okay. Thanks a lot, guys!