aquapod 24-how long should i run my MH

[reefarmer]

how long should i run my 150watt sunpod on my 24g aquapod, i am getting algae blooms and running it about 1o hrs, in the morning the sand has been cleaned but it builds up fast again also the sun shines on it for about an hour before the light comes on, is this affecting it?? thanks

 

[vyger]

From what I've learned in this hobby , algae needs two things to flourish ..Light and nutrients...If you didn't have some form of nutrients in your tank ...nitrates, phosphates, etc...then you wouldn't have an algae problem.. Also goes for sunlight as far as I know. I had a tank exposed to sunlight all morning and never had any algae in it... Sand in a tank ,if not done correctly, can be a sponge for nutrients..

 

[reefarmer]

i thought there might be a nutrient problem, have some cheato in there now but it hasnt' started to grow yet. what is another way to lower the nutrients, i do weekly 10% water changes, more changes? or what?

 

[vyger]

How deep is the sand bed ...should be at least 4 in. or could wind up being a problem holding detrius and causing nitrates. I had a 2.in sand bed in a tank and had algae all the time, finally went bare bottom so I could make sure there was nothing causing the algae growth. More crap came out with that sand than you would believe. As soon as I did everything cleared up with a bunch of water changes. I have had successful tanks with sand beds but not that tank...As far as water changes , IMO you have to export more nutrients than you are building up in the tank due to whatever reason...feeding, fish poop or whatever. I would try doubling the water changes first and see if that helps.....Couldn't hurt for sure...

Also would help if you are running a really good skimmer!!!

 

[reefarmer]

yeah the sand bed is about 2 inches deep so you are saying i should double it or get rid of it altogether huh. best way to export the nutrients? like i said i have some cheato in the tank but it hasnt started to grow yet. thanks for your replies!! gary

 

[reefarmer]

i have a stock 12 g aquapod also, has a 2 in sand bed , just a pistol shrimp, watchman goby, and a blennie and no problems but it only has the stock lights.

 

[All Delight]

I'd run it 6-8 hrs.

 

[reefarmer]

i have been running the halide for about 10 hours i will cut back to about 7 for now thanks

 

[Frankie E]

From my expierence sounds like your tank is moderatly new, Just cycle the tank for 3 weeks with out a water change then do a 10-20% water change, remember you need patients for this hobby.