So what is the best way to run GFO?

So I always thought I had no PO4 problems. Good growth, no algae problems at all. I used a high range test kit and altered the procedure to find I had .2. I thought that was low, but now have been set straight.

So, first I need to get a real low range test kit to see where I'm at. More than likely it will be higher than it should. I have a BRS reactor for carbon. I throw some in and let it run for about 2 weeks then take it out and get around to putting back in after about two weeks.

I figured I would go with BRS GFO, but want to know if I can run it in the same reactor, and how often I need to change out? Was wondering if anyone alternates their GAC and GFO in their reactors?

 

I actually run Phosguard.

GFO works well, if you run GFO make sure the flow is adequate enough to make it tumble gently - if it does not, it will become a solid piece. Too much flow in the reactor, and the fines will get into your tank. Reactors are the only way IMO (BRS single reactor is good, dual reactor is best as you can run carbon as well).

 

Ya I didn't figure I needed GFO so I passed on the dual. At this point I'm sure I could get another on and put them together. I use ROX .8 carbon though and that stuff is so fine it plugs up in a week or so. I even have it using skimmer water so it is as clean as it is going to get.


The carbon needs to be held at the top, but the GFO is in the bottom and needs to tumble. I thought about running both in the same reactor assuming I could get enough flow, but I would have to sort of match the rates at each one is exausted so I could change them at the same time.

 

Hi Powerman

just a suggestion, if you dont want to have the worry about throwing away GFO thats not exhausted or leaving carbon in that is

how about using 2 media in the same reactor that are advertised as not leaching once exhausted

so GFO and Chemi pure for example ( Chemi pure replaces the carbon doing a similar job)
or GFO and Purigen - (Purigen is also good at polishing water in addition to removing nutrients)

I have used the later with good results
not tried the former , but if I locate chemi pure out here, I will be doing so on my 60

Steve

 

I have read some things at time disputing carbon leaching once exhausted. Not sure what to think.

BRS is cheap. Not sure what the cost would be compared to what I'm doing now. Certainly a very reasonable and good suggestion.

I could just say run GFO for 3 weeks and Carbon for one. I'm all for running carbon, but have question whether I need to do it all the time. One reason I try to in the Mother in law uses a ton of perfume and it worries me around the tank.

If need be I can get another reactor and run them external.