Any Carbon like BioPeletts, Vodka,Vinegar,Sugar etc. will encourage Bacteria grow, is NOT enough to control the PO4 just by using large density of Bacteria, you have to keep your tank (sump) clean, good Protein Skimmer is a must. I consider sand a "Luxury" need constant clean, water flow very important, help to export the Detritus fast, avoiding precipitation, AquaScope also very important , Berlin socks help, make the water crystal clear, but how long stay the Detritus in (days) then when come to clean, pain, not to mention what kind the water use to rinse, the domestic water supply (cooper) full of PO4, chlorine,Ammonia, bad minerals etc. Also use a good RO/DI water, feed less . In my opinion the faster you remove Detritus and export the better will be. Much easy to control the tank. Right now i use :
No sand
No Berlin Sucks
NO Active Carbon
NO GFO
Just 12 mi of Vodka for 280 Gal. system.
Clean Sump every time i see Detritus precipitation by using Diatom Filter.
Vio.