Carbon and Phosphate filter?

[ReefWaters]

Being the "Chemistry" forum, I figured this is the place to ask a chemical filtration question and not in the "Lighting, Filtration, and Other Equipment" forum. Please move this post if that is not the case.

I have a double canister style filter that is meant to filter tap water for ice machines and commercial coffee makers, etc. It looks identical to the bottom filter cartridges on an RO unit.

The unit is brand new and has no metal parts that would touch the water. One cartridge says "activated carbon" and the other indicates that it is a phosphate filter/sponge. I also happen to have several "cases" of replacement filters (which would be really nice if this will work).

My question is basically if all activated carbon is basically the same (and therefore aquarium safe) and if so, I'm assuming I could use this on my tank? I could simply split a 1/4" RO hose off of my main pump to feed the canister(s). Would this be okay, optimal, or just a bad idea?

I don't think I really need it, but would the phosphate filter be a good idea to try as well? I was thinking about just running the carbon only.

If you need more detailed information off of these filters to really know for sure, I can post what is written on the cases.

Thanks again for any and all help.


ReefWaters

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley]

Are you talking about running tank water through it? If so, the typical carbon filters used in RO/DI systems will plug very fast.

My question is basically if all activated carbon is basically the same (and therefore aquarium safe) and if so, I'm assuming I could use this on my tank? I could simply split a 1/4" RO hose off of my main pump to feed the canister(s). Would this be okay, optimal, or just a bad idea?

Carbon is not all the same, but I'd guess that most types sold to purify water are likely OK if they do not plug too fast.

I wouldn't be inclined to use a phosphate binder without knowing what it was.

 

[ReefWaters]

Thanks Randy, Ill try to find some more info on the phosphate binder and post it. No guarantees.

Yes, I would be running tank water through this. Even with a little skepticism from you, I am not going to try those filters. Its really unfortunate because as I said, I have about 60 or so of them and got them for free.

Assuming I can rig, or purchase, an empty, "refillable" type cartridge, there should be no problems running aquarium grade carbon in this at a low flow rate right? I would think this would be better than just a bag in my sump?

Thanks again for the help!

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley]

Yes, it would seem a good reactor for running carbon, GFO, or whatever.