Coralline in u-tube

I have coralline growing inside my u-tube. My question is should I soak the u-tube in vinegar once a week or let the coralline grow completely around the inside of the u-tube? I am thinking about just letting it grow because this will keep nuisance algae from growing inside the tube which will keep cleaning at the minimum. On the other hand, I won't be able to see inside of the u-tube.

Thoughts?

 

if your utube always has good flow then there shouldnt be problems... you can let it grow if you see safe that you wont loose siphon

 

I would not let it grow, first, as you said you can't see inside of the tube so if there is air in it, you won't know until too late, second, that will cause friction and slow the water down which will make it easier for air to become trapped in it. I would clean it and soak it in bleach or vinegar every so often. That works for me.

 

Right now there isn't too much growth in the tube but in my tank once it starts growing in a spot it takes off. I'll purchase a 2nd u-tube and soak the u-tube w/ coralline growth in vinegar for 24 hours. I will repeat this whenever it has to be done. I prefer being safe than sorry.

Thanks for the info. k+ for the help

 

Sounds like a good plan.

 

I get bad algae growth in mine at the top of the U. I was thinking about putting some black tape over that section of the tube down the road to see if that helps out.. my t5 bulbs are pretty much right over the tube now causing my problem.. if flow gets too blocked, I use a pipe cleaner..

 

I wouldn't put tape up there to block the section where you need to see into to make sure you get the entire bubble out.

 

Like GuitarMan89 and xmetalfan99 say, I agree that you must be able to visually confirm that water is flowing and bubbles are not developing at the apex of the U-Tube. Blocking it with tape or allowing the inside to become opaque with coralline would prevent this.

Visually checking our systems often is just as important as the maintenance we perform. Wouldn't put duct tape over your speedometer or gas gauge, would you?