NEED ADVICE: Filter sock?

[j.falk]

I'm new to AIOs and mine came with a filter sock. So...I have a few questions:

How often do you change a filter sock? Are they like the old sponges in a HOB filter where you don't change them unless they are starting to deteriorate?

Can they be rinsed and reused? Should they be rinsed out on a regular basis? If so, how often?

How do you know when it's time to change them? Color? Smell? Taste?

Is there a better/cost effective alternative? I'm leaning towards a media basket so I can use filter floss and have the option of running other media should the need arise. But is that a wise choice or is the filter sock the new modern standard for superior filtration?

 

[redfishbluefish]

You change them when they overflow. That frequency depends on how dirty the water is and the mesh size of the sock. I tended towards "high" mesh size because my primary interest was keeping snails out of my skimmer and return pump....200 to 300 socks.

The other consideration is the sock material. Socks are either felt or mesh. Felt socks are impossible to clean correctly. Most run them through their washing machines with bleach. Conversely, Mesh socks are very easy to clean. I would simply run them under a faucet while rubbing fabric to fabric and give them a rinse...done.

I eventually realized that snails weren't going to be an issue for my pumps and now don't run socks unless I want to "polish" the water....maybe a couple times a year.