Fluidized bed filter

[allthingsanimal]

Has any one used a FBF (fluidized bed filter) successfully on a reef setup. I like the filtering capacity but am afraid of the nitrate bildup. I am thinking of building one and using it on my 72 Bow.

Also on a second note be sure to check back on my post I should have new pics up very soon. Got the camera back.

Feel free to debate the pros and cons of fbf's

 

[S.Reef]

I dont think it would be practicle on such a small tank, especially a reef. It wil create a little bit of nitrates. I would just put that money towards a few powerheads and some live rock.

 

[allthingsanimal]

That is what I was thinking. My setup is very stable now.. Mana and I were discussing the effictiveness of these filters. My tank is to the point where I am up to about 5ppm nitrates in a month. What would be the smallest tank you would run one on?

 

[S.Reef]

Depends...most are rated up to 300 gallons or more...so a tank thats heavily stocked...preferably a fish only.

 

[1979camaro]

i agree, i don't really see the point on a reef tank. The LR should provide more than enough biological filtration

 

[dbacksrat]

5ppm of nitrates? thats in the acceptable range...a fbf might raise it to the danger zone though...
instead of powerheads, buy a good pump and use pvc and all sorts of other plumbing wonders to create a sweet water movement system...i am finding that this costs more in initial setup, but tank temperature is lower...the whole plumbing configuration kills me though

 

[wayne]

They're great filters, but totally aerobic in enviroment and great nitrate farms. And don't ever have a power cut as the bacterial colones seem terminally sensitive in them.

For most people a waste of a lot of effort i.m.o., unless you want a colossal FO setup

 

[S.Reef]

When the power goes out they backwash and mess up the anerobic sand.