Sump Maintenance

[nyc reefer]

I have a question, how do you maintain your sump clean? I know some of the detrius buildup has to be cleaned out from the sump, but Im wondering how you do it? Should I use like a shop vac/wet dry vac? and what can I do to minimize the buildup in the first place. I use socks but it seems there is still noticeable detrius buildup which can cause nitrates in the long run.
Thanks

 

[duke62]

Every 3 months i remove sump and clean the wole thing in my tub.

 

[Alex]

I use a small maxijet in the sump. it keeps the detritus in suspension and circulating. I also employ two filter socks which I change every two weeks. I have been doing this since the begining of setting up this tank and it has worked out great.

 

[nyc reefer]

Filter Socks

Alex do you use the felt or mesh filter socks? I use the felt but am thinking of switching to the mesh because they are easier to clean so I'll keep up with that more often, which will reduce the detrius.

 

[Alex]

I use both. I picked up about 4 of the mesh socks at macna last year only to give them a try, I prefer them because they don't clog up as easily as the felt. The detritus gets trapped in the mesh just as well as it does in the felt, only difference is in the water flow.
However , they will both clog after a while.

 

[nyc reefer]

Mesh Filters

Im gonna get (2) 100 micron from a local supplier to give them a shot.

 

[CONSTANTNE]

When I do water changes I use a maxi-jet and tubing to pull water from my sump. I stir up or turkey baste the sump section and let the maxi-jet do the rest. I dont do this to the regufium section of my sump only skimmer and return area.

 

[Turbovr3six]

Should I use like a shop vac/wet dry vac? and what can I do to minimize the buildup in the first place.

I run a small powerhead in my skimmer/intake, and return sections of my sump. I then use the Bucket Head Shop-Vac to suck up the bottom of my skimmer cone once a week. I reduced the hose on the shop-vac to accept a 1/2" RO tubing.

 

[mbg75]

I use my vortex diatom filter without the powder.

Sent from my ADR6300 using Tapatalk

 

[Fishluva513]

i use a mr.lee gravel vac


Matty'sCornerAquariums

 

[Jzhou]

i siphon it with python's sink attachment. There is a lot of distrus build up in my sump coming from the rocks

 

[nyc reefer]

Love you guys, awesome feedback, I will incorporate a small powerhead in the skimmer section, and shop vac the loose floating detritus. I cleaned the refugium section today and set it up, I will continue with the rest on Saturday. One more question, should I throw a shrimp in the refugium section?
Thanks