Aquarium Maintenance Service and Aquarium Chemical Filter Media

Dallas Aquarium Experts specializes in aquarium maintenance services for commercial and large residential reef tank and saltwater aquarium maintenance services.  During typical aquarium service we replace filter media designed to be replaced, filter socks, filter pads and filter cartridges are replaced at every aquarium service. However chemical filter media may not require being changed out at every service.  There are two types of chemical filter media we typically use to maintain proper aquarium water chemistry.  We will suggest the type of chemical filter media; amount and frequency of use of to improve the chemistry of our client’s aquarium.

Chemical Filter Media

Carbon

Carbon absorbs impurities and heavy metals from aquarium water.  It also increases water clarity, reduces foul and absorbs tannins.  Carbon removes toxins produced by corals and is often used after medicating an aquarium to absorb residual medication.

Carbon works will in a filter media bag placed in a high-volume flow area.  It is most effective when used in a fluidized media reactor with moderate to high flow rate. We suggest replacing your carbon filter media every 2-4 weeks or done during your regular aquarium maintenance service.  Regular usage is recommended as it will help keep your water crystal clear.

Granular Ferric Oxide (GFO)

Granular Ferric Oxide absorbs phosphate and silicate from aquarium water.  Since phosphate is algae fuel in an aquarium, we recommend using GFO regularly in the aquariums we service to help curb nuisance algae growth.  In a reef tanks phosphate is important for coral health and in ultra-low nutrient systems we do not recommend the use of GFO. A po4/phosphate measurement of .02ish is optimum, up to .08 is fine in reef tanks. GFO does affect alkalinity, so be sure to test and buffer your water accordingly when using GFO media on your system.

GFO works best in a fluidized media reactor with a gentle flow creating a mild tumbling of the GFO, too much flow and the media will get pulverized into powder. We recommend replacing GFO during your regular aquarium service every 4 to 6 weeks or as needed based on the level of phosphate in your aquarium.

Schedule a free consultation where a reliable and professional service technician will come to your home or business and access your current situation. Before you make your decision on an Aquarium Maintenance Company in Dallas, allow us the opportunity to provide you a free consultation regarding your current Aquarium or we can provide an estimate on a new aquarium set-up and aquarium maintenance. Your fish will reward you with their natural beauty and years of enjoyment.

• Call us at (469) 450-3900

• Email us at sales@DallasAquariumExperts.com