Why are filter socks so big?

[MrPatel]

Just a general question with maybe no practical purpose, but I can't help but to wonder.

Why are filter socks so big? They're almost the size of my forearm! I can't for the life of me figure out why a reef sock half that length wouldn't be just as effective. Not to mention, when you're running a Nano reef where you have to be conscious of space, that extra space at the bottom of the filter sock chamber could be used for something. Every time I change the sock, I would say the amount of debris it collected is way less than 1% of the filter sock capacity.

Am I missing something here?

 

[albano]

Smaller/shorter socks are available

 

[JayM]

If 4" filter socks were half the size, I'd need to change them 2 or 3 times a week vs. once.
I think I'll be going back to 7" after my current stock of Reef Diapers is gone. I'll gladly take the 1.5-2 week change interval over the convenience of disposable socks.

 

[MrPatel]

If 4" filter socks were half the size, I'd need to change them 2 or 3 times a week vs. once.
I think I'll be going back to 7" after my current stock of Reef Diapers is gone. I'll gladly take the 1.5-2 week change interval over the convenience of disposable socks.

I was under the impression that filter socks need to be changed twice a week regardless of capacity due to decompisiton of detritus.

 

[MrPatel]

Smaller/shorter socks are available

I think I'm gonna need to make the switch

 

[twentyleagues]

I was under the impression that filter socks need to be changed twice a week regardless of capacity due to decompisiton of detritus.

They should be changed out more regularly, like every 3 days. That will keep like you said things from decomposing and adding nitrate and phosphate into the water column. Depending on my nutrient levels in the tank I sometimes remove them sooner or later. Its a way to help you control stuff that could otherwise be out of your influence.

 

[JayM]

I was under the impression that filter socks need to be changed twice a week regardless of capacity due to decompisiton of detritus.

I'd likely change them more often if I had water quality issues, but everything is seems to be stable and in an acceptable range.

 

[Spare time]

I was under the impression that filter socks need to be changed twice a week regardless of capacity due to decompisiton of detritus.

A lot of people just leave them in until they clog.

 

[twentyleagues]

A lot of people just leave them in until they clog.

lol I do that on my "pond". The filter is so hard to maintain mostly because I'm dumb sometimes. I have to get in the pond to get to it to service it. Lot of plants and low nutrients so not a big deal.