Question about removing DSB in sump

JOKER · Nov 9, 2019

I have recently had a baffle in my sump let go. I have it secure for now with PVC pipe. I am building another sump now that will have strengthened baffles. The baffle that let go is on the skimmer section. The sump is set up with skimmer section on one end, return in middle, and DSB on the other end. I run about 25% water through the DSB section, and the rest through the skimmer section. This tank has been running 3 years, and is full of acros. Would I cause a mini cycle if I took the DSB offline, and changed over? I had thought of going back without it in fear of a mini cycle. Any recommendations welcome. Thanks

Quietman · Nov 9, 2019

Sounds like the best way...shouldn't be a measurable cycle if you take if offline - remove it to clean glass (or whatever) and restart. That's partly why remote DSBs are the way to go....much easier maintenance.

But...I'm sure the DSB is providing some/much nutrient control/sink. Might want to take it offline slowly over time.

JOKER · Nov 11, 2019

Quietman said:
Sounds like the best way...shouldn't be a measurable cycle if you take if offline - remove it to clean glass (or whatever) and restart. That's partly why remote DSBs are the way to go....much easier maintenance.

But...I'm sure the DSB is providing some/much nutrient control/sink. Might want to take it offline slowly over time.

I think it is providing some help as well, as I don't do any water changes other than 2 gallon a day to keep trace elements stable. Haven't done any other water changes in a year I may go ahead, and get the sump assembled. Then take a cup of the old sand, put it in the new DSB. Run it for a few weeks outside of stand to give it a kick start. Would that be a good approach? I could then plan the swap, and get it done in a few hours.

Quietman · Nov 11, 2019

If you keep feeding it after seeding, sure. Not sure it's worth it. Most use DSB to manage nitrates. That bacteria can take months to develop. You probably either want to make sure sand is free of organics or cycle it but it's going to take time to develop regardless.

Also there's nothing a series of water changes can't fix, so if it's not fully cycled, or if tank has issues when you take offline, make sure you have water on hand.

Glad to see someone supporting DSB and seeing their benefit. Always thought it was an elegant solution. Little maintenance, occasionally stirring a section and it just works.

JOKER · Nov 11, 2019

Quietman said:
If you keep feeding it after seeding, sure. Not sure it's worth it. Most use DSB to manage nitrates. That bacteria can take months to develop. You probably either want to make sure sand is free of organics or cycle it but it's going to take time to develop regardless.

Also there's nothing a series of water changes can't fix, so if it's not fully cycled, or if tank has issues when you take offline, make sure you have water on hand.

Glad to see someone supporting DSB and seeing their benefit. Always thought it was an elegant solution. Little maintenance, occasionally stirring a section and it just works.

I went with the DSB to manage nitrate. Every tank I have had in the past always had nitrate, even with large water changes. I feed very little, like less than a cube a day. I only feed LRS reef frenzy daily, along with acro power maybe once a week, and red sea color the same as acro power. If I do go back with the DSB i will buy clean sand for sure, and rinse well. Yes the DSB works, but can be problems as well if you don't watch.