does anyone use a DE filters?

[dmorel]

So my tank is coming along really really well, except for the amount of particulates in the water.
I really want to throw a diatom filter on there for a couple of hours.

Paul was mentioning the magnum HOT's that a lot of people use, but it looks like they only make the micron filter now, not the DE filter.
I understand that people use this filter with DE powder, but I have to admit, I don't get the process... Does anyone do this? Know where I can pick some DE powder up (I think Home Depot has it) and can explain the method by which the DE powder is used with the micron filter?


I *was* going to order a vortex XL, but may skip it if I can use a magnum and pick up everything locally and try it out this weekend.

LMK if you have experience/thoughts.
Thanks!
-dm

 

[Philwd]

Any pool store will have DE.

 

[GustavoAZ]

I got some in the pool section and Lowes, used if for scorpions.

 

[dmorel]

thanks guys, I'm sure I can pick some up...
So, I've found one thread that suggests you simply mix the DE with some tank water and "seed" the filter with this paste (perhaps by using a baster) - then run filter until no DE powder exits the filter and then use in tank....

Does that sound right?

My tank is really healthy so I'm a little less excited about this idea the more I research it. I might just need to figure out how to get a filter sock in my sump design for a few days or just get over the particulate.
My wife says I'm crazy for even caring, but...

 

[Garage1217]

How I keep my water crystal clear is super simple. Grab some walmart polyfill and toss it into a aquaclear HOB, Let it run for a day or two and the water diamond clear.

Not sure if this is the idea you are looking for but it is super easy and polyfill is cheap. You will be shocked how much stuff it catches. I layer it pretty thick, usually 2" or so.

 

[dmorel]

I tried using a fluval canister with the same principal with little success. Pulled it after two days and a bit of disappointment.
I will try the Magnum HOB with their micron filter and see what that does in 24 hours. Gonna blow off all the rocks and hit the dead spot in the back corner of the sand bed and just let it go for a day. If that doesn't work, I'll try to figure out how to use the DE with the magnum.
thanks guys.
-dm

 

[jpslickorocks]

I have a vortech I would let go for $50 if you are interested. Shoot me a pm if you would like it.

 

[dmorel]

thanks jps, I will let you know, I might take you up on that offer.
I picked up a magnum HOT with the micron filter yesterday. Just fired it up, going to let it run for a few hours, then do my weekly water change with extra rock blowing off and see how it does.

-dm

 

[rwessels]

I am really interested in seeing how this works. I have TONS of particulate matter in my water column and have no idea how to get rid of it.

 

[dmorel]

I'll keep you posted.

 

[Che]

I used to use a HOT Magnum with DE on a freshwater tank that I used to have a long time ago . If I remember correctly, I would put the DE in the dry canister with the pleated micron filter then Add water from the tank, close up the top of the filter and turn it on. The DE will cover the micron filter and close up the pores on the filter to really polish the water.

Hope that helps,

Che

 

[dmorel]

thanks Che, that's very helpful. I ran the filter for about 10 hours today, definitely a noticeable improvement in the amount of particulate in the water column with just the micron filter in place. Unfortunately it was replaced with a lot of micro bubbles....
I'll run it again tomorrow, never did the actual water change today, too easy to procrastinate with a day off tomorrow

 

[jpslickorocks]

Hey no worries. The offer stands so let me know. I am also interested in the long term effects of what you are doing as well.

 

[Pescado Racing]

DE filters are great at polishing the water, but need constant maintenance to keep from potentially clogging. Note if Diatoms do get lose in system algae will bloom like no tomorrow. I have used on large swim systems with great success.