Under gravel

palmerbasskilla · Apr 1, 2016

Should I ditch my under gravel filters ?

Colin Chaplin · Apr 1, 2016

Like to know as well.

McMullen · Apr 1, 2016

That depends. Could you please provide just a bit more information about your system and the animals your keeping or wanting to keep?

I think Paul B. uses some type or variation of under gravel filter, and his tank is Awesome!
@Paul B

Colin Chaplin · Apr 1, 2016

This was 15 years ago. Now looking to set a new one in new apartment. Have been looking around for a Tank and equipment, back then i used an under coral sand filter, which i cannot seem to find, has this system been obsolete now as it use to draw the water though the sand to help filter.

McMullen · Apr 1, 2016

I think most on here would agree this system is "obsolete," or perhaps less efficient than what is currently for sale and commonly used. That's not to say it cannot be done. I think Paul B. will chime in at some point. His tank has been going strong something like 43 or 45 years.

If you had an idea of size tank your looking for and what you would like to house, there are people here that most likely have "The Setup" your looking for, and could share what they use.

redfishbluefish · Apr 1, 2016

@Paul B might have something to say about this. I believe he runs his in reverse.

palmerbasskilla · Apr 1, 2016

45 gal rimless cube
Aquatop 400 canister w/uv
About 50 lb live rock
Come mixed Zoanthids
2 condy anemone
4 clown 3 cardinals
1 starry eye blenie

Colin Chaplin · Apr 1, 2016

Hi McMullen, Thank you for your reply, i am looking around the 160 -300 l, 42- 65 us gal fish only to start up again.

McMullen · Apr 1, 2016

@palmerbasskilla
So your using both an under gravel filter and canister filter?
What are your nutrient levels? Specifically Nitrate and Phos?
How long has this system been running?
Could you provide a pic?

McMullen · Apr 1, 2016

Hey @Colin Chaplin, hold tight. There are some good All-In-One options at those sizes and some really cool rimless cubes. I'll have to defer to my fellow reefers!!

palmerbasskilla · Apr 1, 2016

Yes using both
Nitrate and phos are both ok phos was around .25 at my last test
Nitrate was 0
System has been up for a month or so

ImageUploadedByREEF2REEF1459533084.899341.jpg

McMullen · Apr 1, 2016

Still a very young system! However, if it ain't broke, don't fix it!

I personally see no reason for you to spend extra money on equipment. Nutrient export is the name of the game, not buy the latest greatest sump, skimmer, whatever.

Are you going for a clown harem tank? I love tanks with lots of clowns and anemones!

Colin Chaplin · Apr 1, 2016

Hi, Palmerbasskilla, very nice tank.

Colin Chaplin · Apr 1, 2016

McMullen said:
Hey @Colin Chaplin, hold tight. There are some good All-In-One options at those sizes and some really cool rimless cubes. I'll have to defer to my fellow reefers!!

Ok thank you, look forward to them.

palmerbasskilla · Apr 1, 2016

McMullen said:
Still a very young system! However, if it ain't broke, don't fix it!

I personally see no reason for you to spend extra money on equipment. Nutrient export is the name of the game, not buy the latest greatest sump, skimmer, whatever.

Are you going for a clown harem tank? I love tanks with lots of clowns and anemones!

Ok
I was just thinking of cleaning it up a little lose the big clear pipes ect. Maybe but a wave maker in and def a small skimmer,
Wish I could do more clowns but don't need a turf war on my hands. Lol

Thanks for the info

Colin Chaplin · Apr 1, 2016

redfishbluefish said:
@Paul B might have something to say about this. I believe he runs his in reverse.

Hi redfishbluefish, mine was reversed as well, was the thing to do back then.

McMullen · Apr 1, 2016

Perc clowns will create a harem. You could certainly upgrade your system aesthetically, but can't get any better on Nitrate/Phosphate. Hopefully others will chime in soon with possible equipment options.