Mini sand filters

[Zurp]

Would a miniature sand filter, the kind used in pools, be a useful addition to a planted tank. As opposed to, or along with the regular substrate style filtration?

[Zurp]

I decided against sand filters... all credible sources say they are an inefficient and cheap method of filtration which require constant chemical additives to be maintained... just like a pool. (No chemical baths for my frogs, I have seen what can happen to a frog when it falls in a pool!)

[digger]

I'm not sure exactly what you are talking about, but a fluidized sand bed is a filter that is drastically different than a pool filter. A fluidized sand bed is a biological filter that has lots of surface area, so it's quite an efficient filter. However, it must be used in conjunction with a mechanical.

[Zurp]

That sounds like what I wanted...

The one that I was looking at worked by forcing water down through tightly packed sand, trapping debris in the sand itself. Later, after a period of time, you would then have to backwash the sand to clear the debris out.

I think I found the one you are talking about...

The one you are talking about, the one I want. Works by pushing water up through the loose sand, allowing the bio-coated sand to scrub the water. No flushing required, just partial sand changes.

I determined that this would still be a luxury to me. If I really want something like this, I will just get one of those cool combo filter/pumps with the four chamber/stage filter. Once I get a reservoir for my tanks.

Like these...
http://www.hagen.com/usa/aquatic/manuals/fluve01.cfm