using gfo with no sump, help

[codydemmel4]

I am wondering if anyone runs gfo without using a sump. I used to have a sumo and would run a gfo reactor but now I do not have a sump and I am wondering if I can run GFO in a hob filter or what do you guys think is the best way to do it?

Thanks for all the help!

 

[Nuluxe]

If you're planning to use GFO to control the phosphates, you may want to have it in a very fine mesh bag. Place it in an area with a good amount of water flow so it can absorb.
I usually use both Phosban in conjunction with carbon, makes for clean crystal clear water.

 

[codydemmel4]

If you're planning to use GFO to control the phosphates, you may want to have it in a very fine mesh bag. Place it in an area with a good amount of water flow so it can absorb.
I usually use both Phosban in conjunction with carbon, makes for clean crystal clear water.

Do you use this in a hob filter or a reactor? because I do not have a sump

 

[uncleL]

I use 2 Marineland HOT Magnums on my 90g using one with crushed coral and one GFO...no sump!

 

[codydemmel4]

I use 2 Marineland HOT Magnums on my 90g using one with crushed coral and one GFO...no sump!

Thank you!
Anyone else using a hob filter for gfo or any other chemicals?

If so, how much flow would you recommend for a 55 gallon and what mesh/material would you recommend to hold the gfo

 

[Sapelo]

I used a BRS reactor as a sort of "HOB," just put the pump into the tank and the return line right back in -- not the prettiest thing in the world but it got the job done.

(PS. I'd go to Bulk Reef's website and use their GFO calculator but start on the low end and gradually increase, you can take it too far)

 

[codydemmel4]

I used a BRS reactor as a sort of "HOB," just put the pump into the tank and the return line right back in -- not the prettiest thing in the world but it got the job done.

(PS. I'd go to Bulk Reef's website and use their GFO calculator but start on the low end and gradually increase, you can take it too far)

Thank you, I plan on using that calculator after I find out what is the best way to go forward with a hob gfo

 

[Reef Frog]

GFO in a canister will work. It may work best in a mesh bag placed after some filter floss.

But this isn't the most efficient method. An upflow reactor is the most efficient way and it can be hung off the back of the tank and possibly in-line from the canister. A TLF-150 reactor can be had for less than $45 new without pump. The only drawback for any device that hangs on the back is the possibility of an aquarium is a leak, which isn't an issue if it's placed in a sumo.

 

[Gagonzalez]

I use a Hang on TLF-150 with GFO on my 28g Nano

 

[codydemmel4]

wondering what exact hob filters use for this?

 

[Gagonzalez]

HOB=Hang on Back

I think a "Two Little Fishies TLF-150 Reactor" with "Hang on Kit" would work fine in your situation.

 

[codydemmel4]

what about this: http://www.amazon.com/AquaClear-50-Power-Filter-Includes/dp/B000260FUM

One bag being carbon and one bag being gfo, will that work or should I only have either carbon or gfo in this filter?

 

[codydemmel4]

im trying to decide which one would work better for gfo, and if I can use gfo and carbon or just one.

http://www.amazon.com/AquaClear-50-Nylon-Bag-2-Pack/dp/B0002DHQR0/ref=cm_cr_pr_product_top?ie=UTF8 ( I think this may be best)

 

[Shaummy]

HOB=Hang on Back

I think a "Two Little Fishies TLF-150 Reactor" with "Hang on Kit" would work fine in your situation.

This is what I use as well. The reactor can be hung on the back of the tank and plumbed to pump water out of the tank and returned. While I think a mesh bag can work, I have my doubts that it is as efficient as a reactor that can allow the slow tumble GFO needs.

 

[codydemmel4]

well I went with the two items I posted above and since I have amazon prime I will be getting them on Friday. I will let you guys know how it goes, I do not think there will be any problems.


One question I still would like an answer too, can I have one bag full of carbon and one bag full of gfo in the hob filter?

 

[Gagonzalez]

Yes, but without GFO tumbling, it won't be very efficient. The outside will make contact with the water and the inside will bind together and not get used. I would use a little at a time, try to lay it flat and change it out every week or two instead of the usual monthly change out that most here do with reactor's. Also make sure it gets rinsed well. A lot of GFO dust will get thrown into the tank if your not careful.

The carbon should not be a problem.

 

[codydemmel4]

Yes, but without GFO tumbling, it won't be very efficient. The outside will make contact with the water and the inside will bind together and not get used. I would use a little at a time, try to lay it flat and change it out every week or two instead of the usual monthly change out that most here do with reactor's. Also make sure it gets rinsed well. A lot of GFO dust will get thrown into the tank if your not careful.

The carbon should not be a problem.

Thanks George, so I can use both of them?

 

[Gagonzalez]

Yes. Shouldn't be a problem. Just not as efficient.

 

[codydemmel4]

Yes. Shouldn't be a problem. Just not as efficient.

So it may be better to just use gfo? or either way you don't think the gfo will be as efficient

 

[Shaummy]

what Gagonzalez was saying is that GFO in a media bag loses some efficiency because it's not really going to tumble in there. You won't get the same flow through the media like you would a reactor.

It will work..(by itself or with carbon) it'll just be a little less effective.