Phosphates

[nycmat]

hello everyone i have been away for a while.

well i am in the process of trying to bring down my phosphates and fix my water chemistry.

as it stands now i have a .5 phosphate level on my 215 with a nitrates of .10 ppm.

i really want to rid myself of those phosphates. i have 2 phosban reactors on my tank.


that hasnt brought it down either.

any suggestions or what do you use

oh yeah BTW i only use RO/DI water for my tank. so that isnt even a possibilty beccause i test my water when it is made to ensure this.
i am using the filter sock method and i will appreciate any other advice that can be given to me

 

[Sindjin]

Water changes are important. it is better to do them more frequently like once a week rathan than once a month.
In my 120, I change 20% a week and I make sure I blow out my rock with a powerhead or TBaster before I siphon.

Also... good flow is important as well. Hows the skimming? Skimming a little wetter helps to remove particulates. Change that filter sock every 2 days at least...dont let it fester.

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley]

My preferred way to routinely export phosphate is by skimming and macroalgae growth. In a high phosphate situation, using GFO is a fine way. The Phosban reactors will certainly work given enough material and patience.

These articles have more info:


Phosphorus: Algaeââ"šÂ¬Ã¢"žÂ¢s Best Friend
http://www.advancedaquarist.com/issues/sept2002/chem.htm

Iron Oxide Hydroxide (GFO) Phosphate Binders
http://reefkeeping.com/issues/2004-11/rhf/index.htm