Filter Media socks in the sump?

I recently shut off my Mag350 canister filter, because I think its putting a constant supply of Nitrates and Phosphates in to my tank since the red slime algae stage is lasting much longer than it should.

In side the mag350 I have Filter Media for add in removal of those nutrients. but since I shut it off I need to find another way to use the media.

I have noticed in some pictures that people have filter socks inside the sump and I am sure with Media in it.

Is just letting a sock sit in the sump with this media inside an effective way to help reduce Nitrates and Phosphates?

 

I think it's an effective method to use the media you want to.

 

We use filter socks and bags of media separately...You should swap out the filter sock bi-weekly, esp if you have a NO3/PO4 issue. If you run media in the sock itself, you'll need to be sure you can rinse it out as it will become clogged with particulates in the sock, and the water will spill over the top of the sock rather than flowing thru the media.

 

Mechanical filtration???Whats that for????;D

 

The most effective means for running chemical media is with a reactor. Media bags in the sump will also work, however.

And yes, your canister most likely was contributing to your algae issue if it was not being serviced frequently.

 

Mr Bill has hit it on the head. The reactor is the way to go. You dont need an expensive one either. Get the BRS single reactor if you want something cheap and effective. I would recommend getting one for GFO and one for carbon. Do yourself a favor and get high capacity GFO. Less maintenance in the long run. Also check out higher end carbons like ROX. Many of us use this combination to control nutrient problems like you're having.

If you cant get a reactor for whatever reason the sock will help a lot.

+1 to what Greg said about the sump filter sock being just for catching waste. The sock you need is made of a much finer mesh allowing water to go through easily. This makes the media you put in much more effective since the water passing though goes through much easier.

Typically you need to use more media if you have these over a reactor simply because its not being used as effectively as a reactor would use it.

 

Aaahhh! another investment! You got to love this hobby.