How often are you guys changing your Filter Socks?

[fredro]

As I have recently upgraded from a nano AIO, I am using filter filter socks for the first time. The first few weeks I wrote off the socks getting full/clogged to the tank being new and everything settling and all the free floating particles. Now, about 2 months into it, I'm still finding myself having to change the filter out every 2 weeks at the most. I'm using 1 4"X8" or a 4"X11" 200 micron (I've used a 100 micron once or twice when it was the only option) in my Custom King 30gal sump, under my 80gal Deep Blue Frag Tank. I don't have much of a choice, as the setup is what it is, but I was just wondering how offer you guys need to change out your socks, what size, amount and Micron they are. Also, are you guys reusing them, if so how are you washing/cleaning them, or are you replacing them with new. Thanks guys!

 

[Nandez13]

I try to replace them once a week and there are several people here that do it more often. Reason being is that the filter sock is just collecting detritus and the longer it stays in your system, the more of a detrimental impact it'll have on your tank. Once I remove them from my sump, I give it a quick rinse in the sink then put it off to the side in a bucket. Once I have 4-5 filter socks in the bucket, I throw them in the washer. This is what I do but everyone's tank is different so I have no idea how dirty your filter socks are getting after a couple weeks

 

[Loose tenticle]

I have 4 replace them once a week and wash in the washer in between, no detergent or bleach though

 

[fredro]

I tried to wash them out in the bath tub, it just seemed like all the wringing and rinsing didn't matter, they stills looked and smelled dirty. I supposed you really need pressure or a rough wash.

 

[Loose tenticle]

Yea fred hence washer, turn them inside out and let them tumble

 

[fredro]

I suppose I should just buy 6-8 and wash them in groups and keep them in a rotation. I was waiting until they became somewhat clogged to change them, but now that you put it like that, it logically is imperative to change them out sooner.

 

[Nandez13]

I suppose I should just buy 6-8 and wash them in groups and keep them in a rotation. I was waiting until they became somewhat clogged to change them, but now that you put it like that, it logically is imperative to change them out sooner.

Yup, I just bought a bunch after a while when I saw how often I had to replace them. I've never thrown any of them away. I use the spray nozzle on my sink to try to get as much "brown" out of it as I can, then I let the washer do the rest.

 

[duromega]

I switch them every 4 days and wash them in the washing machine with bleach

 

[fredro]

Is bleach necessary and if bleach is used, should they be rewashed after with only water, to ensure all the bleach is washed away?

 

[fredro]

Oh, and what micron are you guys using? 100, 200, 300..?

 

[Tonyscoots84]

Is bleach necessary and if bleach is used, should they be rewashed after with only water, to ensure all the bleach is washed away?

I believe so but many have different opinions and ways of cleaning the socks. I throw them in the wash with bleach and usually do 2 extra rinses to make sure its safe.

 

[duromega]

Is bleach necessary and if bleach is used, should they be rewashed after with only water, to ensure all the bleach is washed away?

this is how I do it :

I put them in water and bleach for 24 hours
then I start a washing cycle (heavy - small load)
then rinse 3 times , then dry hang them to dry

 

[The Codfather]

Probably once a week. Found it real quick and easy to clean with my Preasure Washer (with delicate nozzle).

 

[Loose tenticle]

Theres this guy on MR that sells them for like $4 way cheaper than any pet store when youre swapping the alot

 

[fredro]

I wish I had a pressure washer to use for them. Now I just need to find a place to keep the dirty ones, until I have a bunch ready to wash. Right now I have the one I changed out the other day in a plastic bag outside the back door.

 

[fredro]

Theres this guy on MR that sells them for like $4 way cheaper than any pet store when youre swapping the alot

While searching for the answer to my question, before I posted and asked (something that would help people answer most questions, seeing they've usually already been asked), I came across the thread of the guy that sells them for $4... Great price! Problem is, his 4" are 13", which are gonna be a little too long for my sump. 4"x8" and 4"X11" are ideal and the biggest I can do. I have 4 right now, the LFS gets $5.95 for em, so I figure I'll buy another 4 or so and call it good. I'll rotate washing then like 4 at a time.

 

[Loose tenticle]

Yea didnt think of that, thanks for the info fred

 

[The Codfather]

cody0709 is the guy your talking about. That's who I got mine from. Good guy buy with confidence. He even ships.

 

[The Codfather]

Maybe a zip tie will help to make the sock shorter. Just an idea, if all you can get your hands on are long ones.

 

[Nandez13]

I've never used bleach/soap.

It blows my mind that filter socks can generate almost 20 replies on New Year's Eve lol. Wish this applied to a lot of other content on the forum.