Sand and filters

[antimony]

Do a lot of you guys use pool filter sand with power filters...AC's to be exact? What's the likelihood of the sand damaging the impellars? is it common?

 

[ercnan]

I run AC 110's on my 125 with sand and have no issues.
I just keep the intakes no deeper than half way.
I'd say sand will damage the impellers if it gets in them.
Some folks make pre-filters for the intakes to help keep the sand out.

 

[ken 429]

Use a pre filter on your intakes and you will have no problems with sand in your impeller plus it helps extend your time btween filter cleanings.

 

[rallysman]

I have 4 tanks with AC filters and pool filter sand. Never have had sand get in the impeller.

 

[ewurm]

You can put a sponge over the intake, but that reduces mech filtration.

 

[ThePBM]

does anyone use pool filter sand as filter sand? aside from fluidized, that is

 

[dr_sudz]

If your thinking of putting it in your HOB filter, I don't think that would work to well. I think you would have issues if you have loose sand inside your filter. Unless your going with the idea of a deep sand bed in the filter. Still don't think it could work that way.

 

[ercnan]

Use a pre filter on your intakes and you will have no problems with sand in your impeller plus it helps extend your time btween filter cleanings.[/QUOTE]

Still gotta clean the pre filter.

 

[BushFishRox]

if you are talking about pool sand as your substrate then just turn off your filters when you are vacuuming the bottom then wait for the sand to settle and you will be fine...