Another filter / poop delema question

[rodger]

I have a 240 using sump / filter sock filtration. I change the filter socks and wonder why - there is almost nothing in them. My problem is poop on the floor. Here is the setup: 2 built-in overflows, 3 1600 GPH powerheads at the bottom, an FX5 with the return and output about 6" off the floor, sump returns pointed down, 2 return pumps each 1800 GPH. Poop stays on the bottom and just goes around the base of the rocks and stumps. I can't get it to go up in the water to get captured by the overflows. I do 30-50% water changes weekly, but I don't like looking at the poop. How can I get it to go up within 2" of the surface? If I put any more flow in it the fish will be stuck on the walls! I try relocating the flow but it just relocates the turds.

 

[Koolfish]

I have the same problem and I thought of something to suck up the poop...I use a 1/2 inch PVC pipe and drop it down in the tank leaving a gap of 1/8-1/4 inch... Connected to a hose with a valve and down to the sump and into the filter sock...i put a valve there so when i do a wc, i just close that valve so i dont lose the siphon....I put a power head in one side to blow all the poop to the other side where the PVC pipe is....and don't forget to drill a hole in the PVC pipe so whenever the power goes out it will stop the siphon.... Hope this help....

 

[rodger]

Thanks, Kool. Interesting idea. I think I will try it but find some clear tube, like the pickup on a python so it is not as visible. I don't think the wife wants PVC in the living room.

 

[Koolfish]

Thanks, Kool. Interesting idea. I think I will try it but find some clear tube, like the pickup on a python so it is not as visible. I don't think the wife wants PVC in the living room.

Np