Backwashing Ultima filter - how often?

[Orthopod]

I have a an ultima 2000 set up in line with a 100 gallon sump on my 450 - backwashed it and rinsed x 3 as directions say - the water did not seem that dirty and it was the first time I did it in a month.

Biolaod is 4 rays, an arowana and 2 large tinfoil’s.

How often do you recommend backwashing?

 

[JK47]

I have a an ultima 2000 set up in line with a 100 gallon sump on my 450 - backwashed it and rinsed x 3 as directions say - the water did not seem that dirty and it was the first time I did it in a month.

Biolaod is 4 rays, an arowana and 2 large tinfoil’s.

How often do you recommend backwashing?

Minimum once per month. With that bioload I would recommend every two weeks of its a significant portion of your filtration. Smaller models need more often.

 

[Orthopod]

Minimum once per month. With that bioload I would recommend every two weeks of its a significant portion of your filtration. Smaller models need more often.

Thanks

 

[JK47]

Thanks

You bet! If you work out a different or more effective schedule please share. We need all the feedback from others we can get

 

[nzafi]

Just curious if you guys ever use probiotics in your aquariums. Wouldn’t it reduce the need for backflushing.

kendragon makes the arguement of never backflushing these filters.

 

[kendragon]

Just curious if you guys ever use probiotics in your aquariums. Wouldn’t it reduce the need for backflushing.

kendragon makes the arguement of never backflushing these filters.

For clarification, my bead filter is strictly a bio filter. The media I use is coarse which don't trap particles.

Ultima on the otherhand has medias that is both mechanical and bio. Ultima need to be backwashed periodically. I have a thread in the outdoor pond section which shows backwashing weekly.

 

[nzafi]

For clarification, my bead filter is strictly a bio filter. The media I use is coarse which don't trap particles.

Ultima on the otherhand has medias that is both mechanical and bio. Ultima need to be backwashed periodically. I have a thread in the outdoor pond section which shows backwashing weekly.

Thank you for clarifying. Will check out the thread.