How does everyone keep the bottom of there sumps clean

[xhappyx]

i ask this because i've noticed some build up on the bottom. and today i just added a berlin turbo skimmer and my tank is now filled with whatever was on the bottom real cloudy water. any suggestions on how to keep it clean would definatly help me out alot thanks.

 

[thangbom]

..... hum.. the bottom of my sump is clean.. dont know how yours is dirty.. do u use a filter pad ??? or sock?? ( they can help catch larger debree from the water befor it go's to the bio-balls..then sump bottom. )

 

[f1shman]

happy i have that same problem, well not really a problem, just theres some gunk laying on the bottom of the sump, doesn't seem to do anything though.

 

[xhappyx]

Originally Posted by F1shMan
happy i have that same problem, well not really a problem, just theres some gunk laying on the bottom of the sump, doesn't seem to do anything though.
well it settled for the most part again. i'm going to try a filter sock or something this week and probably take the sump apart and give it a real good cleaning.

 

[squidd]

Long ago I realized an "under tank" sump was too close to the ground to get a good "siphon" going to suck the "gunk" from the bottom...
So I purchased Magnum 350 canister filter with a media chamber...
Then adding two 6' hoses to intake and output turns it into an portable "Shop Vac" type cleaner..which WILL suck the gunk from the bottom of the sump(s) and trap it in filterfloss..
AND by switching to carbon in the "chamber" I can polish the water for a day or two ..then clean the canister and set it up for next time...

 

[thangbom]

....... man... i dint know ppl still use canister filters... i hate them things.. they leak.. and are a oin in my butt... cant use them worth jack.. but hey.. thats only me... a friggin H/VAC dude... lol
.....

 

[squidd]

Read the thread again...
It makes a nice "shop vac" for tanks...

 

[ktsdad]

Just so happens I have a Magnum 350 sitting in a box out in the garage, leftover from my freshwater days.
Never thought of it as a "shop vac" - great idea!!

 

[xhappyx]

Originally Posted by Squidd
Long ago I realized an "under tank" sump was too close to the ground to get a good "siphon" going to suck the "gunk" from the bottom...
So I purchased Magnum 350 canister filter with a media chamber...
Then adding two 6' hoses to intake and output turns it into an portable "Shop Vac" type cleaner..which WILL suck the gunk from the bottom of the sump(s) and trap it in filterfloss..
AND by switching to carbon in the "chamber" I can polish the water for a day or two ..then clean the canister and set it up for next time...
that's not a bad idea i have a fluval layin around somewhere i'll have to give it a try thanks.

 

[acrylic51]

You gotta love the Magnums Squidd that's how I've used mine!!!! Never ran my carbon through there though!!!!!
You have to keep the filter pads clean or they become a problem.....Filter socks would catch some of your pods and have to be kept clean as well

 

[coastie55g]

i might have a similar problem with my tidepool.. i think its just the batch of cheap carbon i picked up.. a brand ive never used before.. wont ever get it again thats for sure.