Should I get aqua gadget?

[ZachariahBeanzz]

Just curious before buying, I’m setting up an IM 20g long, and was wondering if the aqua gadget would be any better than the filter socks, thanks!

 

[Fish Fan]

Do you mean the Aqua Gadget media caddy? If so, I prefer that to socks.

 

[ZachariahBeanzz]

Do you mean the Aqua Gadget media caddy? If so, I prefer that to socks.

Yes, sorry. It seems better, but I was wondering what I should run with it? I don’t want to run GFO, and was probably going to do some matrix media

 

[Fish Fan]

You can use Matrix or another bio media on the bottom rack, in the middle some Granular Activated Carbon (GAC), and on the top something like filter floss. I use Poly-Fil which you can find at craft stores for stuffing pillows and things, same as filter floss but much cheaper.

 

[Airedale Reef]

I have the IM 30l, and run a sock in 1 chamber and a media basket in another.

My basket has filter floss in the top compartment, carbon in the second, and rubble rock rock in the third. You can mix and match or add any other media you like.

 

[ZachariahBeanzz]

I have the IM 30l, and run a sock in 1 chamber and a media basket in another.

My basket has filter floss in the top compartment, carbon in the second, and rubble rock rock in the third. You can mix and match or add any other media you like.

I haven’t really looked into filter socks just because I’ve been thinking of using the baskets. How often do you have to clean/replace the sock?

 

[Airedale Reef]

I haven’t really looked into filter socks just because I’ve been thinking of using the baskets. How often do you have to clean/replace the sock?

I was in the same boat as you when I started, and ultimately couldn't decide so went with the best of both worlds (one of each lol)

My tank is actually an AIO, and I "upgraded" to IM filter roller as this is the new technology etc. I was pleased with the product, but ultimately, went back to socks/basket as I didn't like the bulky aesthetic on top of the tank.

On average, I change out the filter floss and sock once a week. The floss gets thrown in the garbage the sock gets a good rinsing before thrown into a bleach wash cycle once a month (once I accumulate 4-5 dirty socks)

 

[ZachariahBeanzz]

I was in the same boat as you when I started, and ultimately couldn't decide so went with the best of both worlds (one of each lol)

My tank is actually an AIO, and I "upgraded" to IM filter roller as this is the new technology etc. I was pleased with the product, but ultimately, went back to socks/basket as I didn't like the bulky aesthetic on top of the tank.

On average, I change out the filter floss and sock once a week. The floss gets thrown in the garbage the sock gets a good rinsing before thrown into a bleach wash cycle once a month (once I accumulate 4-5 dirty socks)

So you can just reuse the socks? And before you put them in the wash, you just wash them (presumably in tank water?) thanks!

 

[Airedale Reef]

So you can just reuse the socks? And before you put them in the wash, you just wash them (presumably in tank water?) thanks!

Yes, socks are meant to be reusable. I have a total of 6 socks, so once I replace a dirty one from the tank, I give it A Thorough rinsing with the hose, and place in a bucket until I have accumulated 4/5 "used" socks . At that point usually a month later I throw in the washer machine and run a bleach cycle.