Strainer on Main Drains

[bluecheese]

125 gallon tank double peninsula, so it has two overflows two main drains and two emergency drains. Both Herbie style drains.

Since the tank was set up 5 years ago, I've had strainers on the main drains. I never really gave much thought to it. But I normally have to brush off the strainers once or twice a week when something gets stuck on it. I can tell because I can hear the emergency drain gurgling like crazy.

Which made me wonder if the strainer is really even needed. I used the strainers based on this article from GMAC Reef GMAC Reef

Should I keep the strainers on so something doesn't get down one of the main drains and clog it? Or is it safe to remove them?

 

[Kazumi]

Do you have to have the strainers, no. If you take them out there is nothing to keep a snail or two from going down and getting stuck at your valve. I know that I have a half dozen or so snails that like my overflow box.

 

[KrisReef]

Agree with the first response, and would add that the utility of the strainers is possibly only fully appreciated after its absence has created a situation that could have been avoided by its presence.