Purigen vs. activated carbon, which is better?

[garygb]

I've been using activated carbon and believe it performs a useful service in filtering out organics. I've read very positive reviews of Seachem's product Purigen. According to what I've read, Purigen can be regenerated and used again, many times--which sounds economical. Just wondering what experience others have had using Purigen and whether you found it to be preferable to activated carbon?

 

[kallan]

I like Purigen. In fact, I started purchasing this from Pet Mountain in the 100ml bag, because it is so much cheaper there. I was regenerating it, but it became such a hassle with the bleach, etc. Then you have to use dechlorinator, etc....I just don't trust it. Now, I just toss them out. I use two pouches in my NextReef MR1 reactor and it doesn't really need changing for about two months on my 135 gallon.

 

[kallan]

I also have to be careful with carbon. I thought I would use some carbon because of the chemical warfare that might occur with adding a second anemone to my tank. My SPS seemed to start losing color and when I removed the carbon they looked better. Could have just been my imagination, but I don't think so.

 

[Steve Wright2]

My opinion is both have their place/ function within my reef tank
I have been running both Carbon and Purigen for around 3 years now

I have not found a problem with the regenerating and can renew mine for 4 or 5 times
before deciding to change to new one

If I was forced to choose one, I would go with the Purigen for the simple reason that with carbon its a "feel" call on when to remove and replace , I have never been 100% sure that my chosen schedule of replacing is either, dispossing of carbon with potential to continue removing nasties, or if I am running it beyond its capacity to remove
it removes substances that we generally cannot measure for, and as such indicators from inhabitants or a definite yellowy tint when aquarium is viewed side on, are the general indicators I use

with Purigen the definite colour changing you see on the beads, in addition to the clarity of tank and general indicators of the inhabitants, is a nice bonus IMO, I never have to question myself when it comes to regenerating or renewing Purigen, but with carbon I often find myself doing just that

Steve

 

[garygb]

Thank you both for sharing your experiences. Sounds like you guys echo the other positive reviews I've read on this product. It's reasonably priced, so I think I'll give it a try. Thanks again.

 

[sponger0]

I havent used either.

Before you use it, the question you need to ask yourself is why?

 

[garygb]

For the removal of organics, similar to the reason I use GAC. Along with skimming, I would hope it would help to continue my nitrates being undetectable. The option to regenerate it makes it an attractive alternative/adjunct to GAC.

 

[sponger0]

Well you dont want phosphates to be undectable. You want them low. Not undetectable.

 

[garygb]

I never seem to have the phosphates dip that low. I always have at least a little algae growing somewhere.