Filter sock and Protein Skimmer

[ken6217]

After spending a few hours cleaning my sump, I realized I got to use a filter sock. I had given up on using it a while ago because when I first put one on my sump, it made me skimmer go nuts for hours. Has anyone else had this problem have and how do you solve it? I have an H&S skimmer which is similar to Deltec.

Thanks,
Ken

 

[pgordemer]

This is normal as the sock changes teh surface tension of the water. The lower the microns of the sock, the more then surface changes.

A 100 Micron Sock, has a more dramatic effect than a 150 Micron sock.

2 thinks to try...

1. Try a 150 Micron Sock, its a good compromise since for most the goal is get the chunky pits from the overflow.

2. Take the sock and drop it into the sump and leave it there for a day not attached to the drain line. This will get the sock soaked and open the pores up a bit, it will also cause a small change in surface tension in the sump and slighly bother the skimmer, but just a bit initially.

The last think to do is tune the skimmer for use WITH THE SOCK ALL THE TIME, as the air mix/water height in the column will be different with and without the sock. As a bye product, you are reducing the workload on the skimmer as the sock it picking up some disolved solids before the skimmer. (You see it as a brown film on the sock)

I do both, I use 150 Micron socks, and have the skimmer tuned for use with the socks. I always have one on.

 

[DaveK]

I would also wash a new filter sock before using it. You just never know if there is anything on it. Even if it's harmless, it could be something that messes up a skimmer.

To clean mine, I just run them through the washing machine with no soap. That gets them much cleaner than I can get them otherwise.