Do I need to clean out my sump?

2goby

New Member
I just became part of the saltwaterfish family. I have a wet-dry system and I was woundering if or how often I should clean out my sump? I am also looking for an experianced person to question as I go.. <img src="graemlins//confused.gif" border="0" alt="[confused]" />
 
I use twin emperor 400's in my tank so I am sorry I cannot help you much with what you have. There are a ton of very talented people on this forum and they will be able to advise you....Beth, Terry, Fshhub have all helped me a great deal, perhaps they will reply to this post.
 
Honesty is what you deserve....when I started out here I wanted it as well and everyone who helped me, only gave me advice that they KNEW..and not guessed at. If your post does not get a reply that helps you.....don't give up, sometimes ya need to ask twice due to so many new threads being posted all the time.
Good luck on your aquarium...post a pic of it sometime
 

mal

Member
Do you have a skimmer? Is there any media in the sump? Do you have a pre-filter sponge in your overflow?
I have a hang on type overflow, and there is a sponge in it that I clean / rinse out about once a month, but I have never cleaned my sump media.
I did add a whole bunch of macro algae to the sump and some lights for it to assist in nutrient export. (nitrates) Much of the bio-filter / good bacteria, is established and lives in your sump. If your get a huge build up of gunk in it you could siphon some out, but the amount of gunk should remain pretty steady and not build up if you have a good feeding regimen and don't overfeed. If you have media in the sump, I would not siphon it. If you want to clean some gunk off equipment, pumps and heaters etc, go ahead whenever you want to. Otherwise I would leave it be and let it do its thing.
Welcome to the board. Lots of people here have good advice / experience. You can't go wrong by asking questions.
 

2goby

New Member
Mal,
I do have a sponge on my overflow that I clean after every feeding period. I have a skimmer that sits down into my sump, if u know the type.Please tell me about the algae media, please explain...thanks alot
 
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