Can small pool/spa filters be used on large aquariums??

[Ramesh]

Does anyone have experience with pool sand filters and are they strictly just for mechanical purposes?
I found an ad for a small one bag sand filter and wanted your opinion on using one on my 500g.
Could it be a massive mechanical and biological aquarium filter along the lines of a bead filter?
It has a low 65w 4000L/H pump and holds 20kg of sand it also seems to have a narrower foot print in comparison to the standard squat looking pool sand filters.

http://www.plecofanatics.com/forum/s...ad.php?t=73005

 

[ITHURTZ]

sand filters have a max flow rate, the small ones may only be able to handle
1000-2000gph. And pending on the stock the smaller the filter the more backwashing which is more water changes for u.


from ebay search 16" sf 50lb sand 35gpm 2100gph
22" sf 150lbs sand 55gpm 3300gph