Chaeto, how beneficial is it?

[Mr E Wrasse]

Just wondering everyone's thoughts on using chaeto to control nitrates. Until recently I had it running in my system but it wasn't doing that good of a job bring down the nitrates. I moved into a new house a couple of months ago and I still haven't hooked my fuge back up to the system. When i moved I also took all of the sand out of my display (it was becoming toxic) and my system has improved dramatically, nitrates stay below 5.
The chaeto seemed to always be full of detritus. Does the chaeto need to be removed periodically and rinsed out?
I guess I'm just trying to figure out if it's worth hooking my fuge back up to the system.

 

[Mr E Wrasse]

bumpsky!

 

[soccerbag]

Took mine out last year as it was a detritus trap for me too. Tank never missed a beat and has never looked better. Not saying that the cheato was holding corals growth back (I know it can be very beneficial). However, running GFO / vodka dosing, regular water changes, and a good skimmer can work really well too. Hope all is well Jordan. How is married life treating you?

 

[Mr E Wrasse]

yea Craig, I'm starting to realize that simplicity is the key. I haven't hooked my UV filter up yet either and haven't seen any ill effects. Married life is good, not much different than it was before.... but then again, there aren't any kids in the mix just yet.

 

[soccerbag]

Agree with simplicity. The only things in my sump are the skimmer, a Tunze to stir stuff up, and a return pump. Makes it very easy.