Wet/Dry Layer questions

[coryjac0b]

I am creating a wet/dry section in my sump, I already have some bio balls to be put in there, what are the other essential layers to have?

 

[epond83]

Mech filtration before the bio

 

[coryjac0b]

Mechanical, meaning a layer of filter pad or something? If so can i use something like quilt batting or some kind of fabric?

 

[epond83]

Yep, that is very common. Filter socks are a good way to go, if you can make them work with your system.

 

[pjsmetana]

Mechanical, meaning a layer of filter pad or something? If so can i use something like quilt batting or some kind of fabric?

Use pond filter pad. Its cheap, and easy to cut. You'll buy it in bulk, but that means you'll likely not need to buy more for years.

Do not use standard fabrics, such as cotton, as the microorganisms will eat it. I used an old white cotton t-shirt for the 3 days before my pond filter mat came, and it fell apart into the bottom of my sump.

Filter socks are great but personally I prefer using a sponge filter as the 1st line of defense, then the pond filter mat, then the bio balls, then w/e w/e so on.