Sponge Filter/Bubble Trap = Trash it or Leave it?!

[obzidian_reef]

Specifically to the sponge filter before the pump chamber, this filter gets clogged fairly quickly, water level goes up and down in my sump and thusly my skimmer goes bonkers.

So why have it in the first place? (Thats an easy one, I read the manual!)

But seriously, is there a better solution that doesnt require me to get my hands in the sump every other day and rinse this thing out?

Is 100% removal recommended?

If not what have you all replaced it with?

 

[vetteguy53081]

Specifically to the sponge filter before the pump chamber, this filter gets clogged fairly quickly, water level goes up and down in my sump and thusly my skimmer goes bonkers.

So why have it in the first place? (Thats an easy one, I read the manual!)

But seriously, is there a better solution that doesnt require me to get my hands in the sump every other day and rinse this thing out?

Is 100% removal recommended?

If not what have you all replaced it with?

Although I clean mine as bedded, it is a Royal pain

 

[obzidian_reef]

Exactly.

Ive unfortunately stumbled upon the ceramic media/aluminum rabbit hole and that is something i refuse to get into in the off chance its true.

What about plate style dry rock? Wont clog as fast as the sponge and still provide a home for bacteria and critters.

Thoughts?