Using charcoal in reef setup?

[thetedinator]

How do you use charcoal in your reef setup? Do you use it once in a while using an external fileter? Do you use all the time and if so, how often do you change it and where do you use (sump, etc.)?

Thanks,

Ted

[algaeguy]

Hi Ted,

I am a big fan of activated carbon myself. I use it continuously. You can use it passively the way I do, or in a dedicated canister filter or other mechanical filtration device. The way I use it is to keep several ounces of carbon in a meshbag in a high flow area of my sump. I usually keep two bags at a time in there and rotate every three weeks or so. This way you're not creating a nutrient trap by keeping clogged carbon in your system after its absorbtion capability have declined or expired. I like SeaChem's Matrix carbon and I've also used Sprung's hydrocarbon II. Just chose a good grade of phosphate free activated carbon and rinse it out well before using. Then, replace on a regular basis. I have used carbon continuously without any problems or complications.

Hope this helps.

Scott F.

[thetedinator]

Originally posted by algaeguy
Hi Ted,

I am a big fan of activated carbon myself. I use it continuously. You can use it passively the way I do, or in a dedicated canister filter or other mechanical filtration device. The way I use it is to keep several ounces of carbon in a meshbag in a high flow area of my sump. I usually keep two bags at a time in there and rotate every three weeks or so. This way you're not creating a nutrient trap by keeping clogged carbon in your system after its absorbtion capability have declined or expired. I like SeaChem's Matrix carbon and I've also used Sprung's hydrocarbon II. Just chose a good grade of phosphate free activated carbon and rinse it out well before using. Then, replace on a regular basis. I have used carbon continuously without any problems or complications.

Hope this helps.

Scott F.

Thanks Scott.

[OUinLA]

i just dump it in my filter sock (after rinsing of course)

[eums]

i just added maybe 4 table spoons or less of carbon to my tank and the water looks alot clearer. i have never run carbon befor but i can look long ways through the side of my tank and i do not see any light green tint in the water. i just put it in a filter bag and put it in my fuge ( after i rinsed it out in ro/di water)

[luger]

Ive been running black diamond carbon for years 24/7 in sump under overflow hose in a nylon bag.Gets changed 1 a month.

[David P]

I keep activated carbon in a sock down in the sump 24/7 I use the charcoal for when the fish get too big and have a BBQ. Sorry Ted, I couldnt resist.

[thetedinator]

Thanks for input everyone. I am now running charcoal in my sump in the filter sock which (based on the small response sample) seems to be the prefered method.

Ted

[AWExotics]

I use a CPR bak Pak CVT (In Sump Skimmer). I place a bag of Kent Reef Carbon (rinsed) in the out take. I use it for 1-2 weeks every month. This is approximate length of time as I am forgetful.

Todd

[Dag]

Where's a good source for Black Diamond charcoal?

[David P]

I dunno about the windy city but out here even the crappy LFS sell it by me... sorry I cant help ya more.

[AWExotics]

Originally posted by Dag
Where's a good source for Black Diamond charcoal?

It's a Marineland product so it should be available at nearly any LFS. If they don't Stock it (I do not) they can get it from probably any supplier they use.

Todd

[TurboRook]

Originally posted by Dag
Where's a good source for Black Diamond charcoal?

I even saw a couple containers at Petco when i was buying dog food the other day. Kinda suprised me since they usually only have Kent and Aquarium Pharmeceuticals.

[Dag]

I want to buy it in bulk quantities.