Are filter socks nitrate factories?

[crustytheclown]

I just got a used IM 30l and it came with the stock filter sock. It is really heavy duty and looks dirty and stinks. I have only used disposable filter floss in the past. Should I toss it?

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[Balz3352]

I asked the question a few weeks back. They're a good tool if you do consistent maintenance on them but if u don't they can be negative

 

[JNG]

I remember folks would throw them in washing machine with the whites and rinse well. Just hang it up and dry or put it back in.

 

[Dr.DiSilicate]

Only if you don't clean them once or twice a week.


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[Smiley]

Only if you don't clean them once or twice a week.

+1

 

[sethsolomon]

Just my thoughts on the subject, they don't really add nitrates any more than not using them does. The sediment that gets caught in the filter sock will still settle in your sump and become nitrates. Yah some will get sucked into the skimmer and removed but most will just settle in the bottom of the sump and decompose down to nitrates eventually. So it can generate a tad bit more nitrate but ultimately it does not change much. Ideally you should rinse out your filter socks every 3-4 days to remove leftover food and what not that has come from the display. If you don't do this, the filter sock is not really helping. Nor is it harming as it is pretty much the same as not using one.

 

[DJBM3]

I change mine out once a week... I use a filter sock to stop the salt creep and splash back in the sump.

 

[projectx]

I throw mine into the wash, no bleach, no detergent, run them through inside out then do another reverse. Your skimmer will go nuts when you first put them into the sump but if you rinse them with water change water it doesnt do this.