How to Remove Phosphates from Water and Reduce Algae
1. Place GFO media in mesh media bag in filter or sump, or directly in fluidized reactor in recirculating water flow.
2. Initial starting dose = 1 gram/gallon in media bag or fluidized reactor.
Standard maintenance dose = 2 grams/gallon in media bag or fluidized reactor
Start slowly since GFO removes phosphates quickly and effectively to
avoid shocking your aquarium. Once phosphates are under control in 2 to 3
weeks, increase GFO dose to maintain consistently low phosphate levels.
EXAMPLE STARTING DOSE: 8 grams = 1 level tablespoon, 16 Tbsp = 1 cup.
1 cup per 128 gallons to start in media bag or fluidized reactor
EXAMPLE MAINTENANCE DOSE: 1 cup per 64 gallons standard maintenance
dose once phosphates are under control in media bag or fluidized reactor
3. Monitor phosphates, add or change media when levels start to rise,
or if algae increases. Sometimes the algae consume so much phosphates,
the levels test low while algae growth is still present. Continue
increasing until algae is controlled, or switch to High Capacity GFO HC
for stubborn algae problems.
4. For optimal effectiveness, do not allow overall phosphate levels
to test above 0.05ppm. Test water coming directly from the phosphate
reactor for phosphates. If any phosphates are present, GFO should be
increased or replaced.
5. For best results, pre-filter water going into the reactor, and water going out.
EXAMPLE: Filter sock on effluent to trap fines, especially with new media.
Pro tip: Remove all sponges before and after media in reactors and
replace with plastic mesh to prevent clogging. Add small check valve to
pump side of water line/keep return line submerged to prevent back
siphoning into pump in case of a power outage.
6. Rinse all new media and discard discolored water from rinsing before use.
Pro tip: Use bucket full of tank water and submerge pump and reactor.
Run pump with return line running to drain until discoloration stops,
then return line back into bucket. Run for a few minutes, checking for
proper fluidization. Check for air bubbles or pockets, and gently tap or
tilt reactor to eliminate them. Return pump and reactor to sump or tank
together.
7. Check weekly for good flow and fluidization. If clogged, dump
reactor contents into 5 gallon bucket with tank water, stir and pour off
debris. Media can then be returned to reactor in part or whole.
Pro tip: Use this technique when changing media, and save approx. 1/4
of old media to mix into new media, keeping bacterial cultures stable
to prevent bacteria or algae bloom from media change. If used in
canister filter, use micron bag to hold GFO preferably in thin layers to
keep good flow, and reduce channeling through media.
8. If any negative coral reaction is noticed after new or changed
media, reduce the amount by half. Dropping phosphates too quickly can
cause shock. Once established, overdose is unlikely and phosphates will
not leach back into the system.