H.O.T. Magnum filter... nitrate factory?

[flydan]

Hey,
I have a 55gal reef tank with 110lbs of lr and a dsb. For mechanical filtration I have a skimmer and the above mentioned h.o.t. filter.
Here's my question: I had been using carbon in it plus the foam pad on a regular basis, mainly for surface water movement. I had a problem last week and to solve it it was recommended that I put the micron filter in it. I loved the results and ran it for 4 days straight until I noticed a reduced flow rate. I still want to use it for surface agitation but have since learned that carbon is only good for about a week and then the filter just turns into a nitrate factory. What can I use for a filter medium? Can I just put the sleeve in the canister and leave the basket empty?
Thanks for any advice on this.
Dan'l

 

[beth]

Any filter media will become a nitrate factory, and yes you can just use the canister only without anything in it. Or you can use media [carbon and filter pads] but you will have to change out and clean frequently.

 

[flydan]

Thanks Beth!
Can I run the micron filter all the time? I have heard that you can rinse and reuse them although I toss mine after it clogs.
Anyway, I loved my water condition while I ran the micron filter.
Take care,
Dan'l

 

[fishfreek]

You sure don't have to toss the micron fiter after one use. I soak mine in a very mild bleach solution like the directions say for about two days. Before you do that rinse it well under tap water to get all loose particles out. After it has soaked rince it very well so you can't smell any bleach. Than let dry and you can reuse it.
I don't run my micron 24/7, just perodically to really clean the water. You probably could run it all the time but it will be a hassle cleaning all the time.