Mechanical filter, sump or canister?

[DvSkIn]

Just a question for everyone. I'm in the middle of designing my sump and I'm at a stand still. Do you think I should use space in the sump for the filter pad, or save that space and use a canister filter like a Nu Clear or similar with a dedicated pump. I heard they polish the water real well! Just looking for opinions. Thank you

Chad

 

[GratefulReef]

Canisters are generally not used for saltwater as they are nitrite factories after about 3-5 weeks without proper detailed cleaning and most of us dont have the time for that so often. I would think the filter pad would be the best bet, or possibly a sock if youre not already using one.

 

[TimeConsumer]

Canister filters have their uses, but if you're going with a sump it will be a lot easier and just as effective to use filter socks or filter pads. (I prefer socks)

 

[Ron Reefman]

You have a sump, use socks or filter media. If you have a stable system, don't overstock it, don't over feed it and have a good refugium, you may find you only have to run socks part time. Socks need to be changed regularly, but other than doing nothing, they are the next best bet. Buy a lot of them and just store the dirty ones in the garage until you are almost out of clean, then wash them all in the washing machine. I also do a load of 'aquarium' towels with a good dose of bleach after doing the socks. They really make for a gross load in the washing machine and I like to flush the system with the towel load and bleach.

 

[DvSkIn]

Thanks a lot guys. I'm going to incorporate a filter pad into the sump.

 

[allsps40]

On a reef tank or any type of marine tank a sump for sure. You skimmer, filter sock and live rock will take care of pretty much everything else. Power filters and canister filters are great for fresh water tanks as are wet dry filter sumps.