Filter socks

[muggle0981]

How many run reef aquarium w/no filter socks…

Been about a month without when always had used them-not sure i am seeing anything terrible happening without them

 

[The_Paradox]

How many run reef aquarium w/no filter socks…

Been about a month without when always had used them-not sure i am seeing anything terrible happening without them

Have not used socks or filters in ten plus years. If I do a major overhaul I usually slap in some floss for 24 hours but that’s it. Only difference I noticed is a little more detritus in the sump and much lower nitrates.

 

[Dave Reef]

I just removed my filter socks. I was kind of nervous without this security blanket. Will let you know how it goes.

 

[Oldreefer44]

Haven't used them for two years. IMO they are a PO4 contributor as mine went down after removing them.

 

[MoshJosh]

Technically most of my tanks have run without socks (most my tanks have been nanos. . . I guess still are haha).

My "big" reef (40 gallons) uses reef diapers (disposable socks) but my 11 gallon uses course foam in a HOB filter.

As long as you are keeping nutrients in check in other ways, the biggest disadvantage I see from ditching the socks is loss of fine mechanical filtration which could cause clarity issues? . . I guess?

 

[CasperOe]

I run with no socks and no roller - basically no mechanical filtration in the first chamber.

I do base my nutrient export solely on a large, well lit refugium and good skimmer capacity.

I have to dose nitrate and phosphate for not bottoming out.

 

[Uncle99]

I run loose socks.
Traps uneaten food and stuff so I can pull and not add to my nitrates.
I could take them off but would have to replace with something else to maintain current level of nutrients.