Carbon in skimmer?

[mark-24]

Hey, the water in my tank is a little yellow, and I want to add some activated carbon, but I'm not sure how much, where I should put it or any thing. Thanks
-Mark

 

[sonny]

If you want to use carbon, all you need is a mesh bag with some good quality activated carbon. You can even use old panty hose for the bag, but the looser mesh bags are better, as they allow more water to flow through them. The bag should be placed anywhere that water actually flows THROUGH IT. That could be in an overflow box or sump. You should test the brand you get to make sure it doesn't leach phosphate into the water. Get a Phosphate test kit, and perform a test on DISTILLED water, then drop one or two grains of the carbon in the vial. If you see it streak blue, then you should find another brand. Carbon is a good thing to use in reef tanks. Some people use it all the time, and some only use it every few months. It will help yellowing water. Protein skimmers should also help with yellowing water.
Sonny