How to Remove Phosphates from Water and Reduce Algae
1. Place HC 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 HC GFO removes phosphates quickly and effectively to avoid shocking your aquarium.
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
Pro tip: In saltwater, Bayoxide® E33 HC GFO has up to 2x the capacity of standard Bayoxide® E33 GFO, so half dose is possible, and the media has the potential to last 2x as long at full dose.
3. Monitor aquarium phosphate level, add or change media when levels start to rise, or if algae increases. Sometimes the algae consume so much phosphates that test shows low levels while algae growth is still present. After the first 2-3 weeks, continue increasing the amount of HC GFO until algae is controlled.
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, HC GFO should be increased or replaced.
5. 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 a power cut.
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 HC 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.
