Filter Sock replacement?

Hey guys, the sump I have came with a filter sock hanger and 2 felt socks, however I find it extremely annoying to maintain due to them clogging up so quickly and splashing all over inside the cabinet.

Is there any way I can do away with the socks? I have a center compartment in the sump with baffles on both sides that I want to make into a refugium. If I did this, can I do away with the socks?

Also, I just washed one of the socks and there must have been 5-10 good sized pods that I killed in the process. I dont want to trap the pods, I want them to flourish!

 

The sock will help keep your sump clean and polish the water. Ive read enough everywhere to see youll get mixed reviews on removing them. Some say they shouldnt be there so food doesnt get trapped and any organism can pass, others swear by them and say you shouldn't run without them. I just started using mine a month ago and its helped alot with some of the issues ive had but i think it may depend on each individual setup

 

Maybe I just need to revamp the system, because right now it makes a hell of a mess when it starts to get full, its pretty annoying.

 

I don't run them unless I want to clear up the water. Here is how I look at it. If you are using a filter sock, you are passing 100% of your water through fish poo and waste. They work fine if you change them very regularly but my tanks have always looked pretty good w/out them.

 

I change mine every 4 days. I have 4 socks that I rotate. I like them but I can't give you a full unbiased opinion because I never NOT used them.

 

So say I get rid of it, all I have for filtration is a skimmer and a reactor with phosguard in the sump. Also I have 2 larger pieces of rock in the center chamber. What can I add in there to help?

 

I have 2 socks and have to replace them almost every 2 days they are a pain to clean but, they do filter really well. thet being said you have to change and clean them or they cause more problems than they do good.

 

Your skimmer should be getting the stuff that the filter sock would get. If it doesn't it just settles at the bottom of your sump and you vacuum that out. I always just shop vac my sump with water changes and get it all out that way. Seems to work fine.

 

I will do that then! Thanks.

 

I have been sockless for 4 years and I gotta say.It feels fantastic!lol;D