[Askani127]

First time poster here! I'm looking to replace my aquarium with pool filter sand instead of gravel. I just bought a 50lb bag of http://reviews.homedepot.com/1999/202025014/50-lb-pool-filter-sand-reviews/reviews.htm from home depot. Is this the correct type? I want to double check before I put it in. Thanks

 

[steven p]

Should be fine. I have used all sorts of box store sands, just rinse them for dust first.

 

[ngrubich]

Yea, that sand will work.

Be advised that you will be rinsing that sand for quite a while (mine was super dusty and took ~15 min per half-bucket to wash it enough). Also, depending on what type of filter setup you have, I would be wary of turning on the filters immediately afterwards. If you have a sump with a fine-micron sock, then go ahead. If you have a HOB, then i would be worried about the impeller sticking/grinding.
Also, pool filter sand (PFS) will brown over time: I got tired of mine looking dirty and went to some CaribSea in my cichlid tank.

Welcome to TPT!

 

[Askani127]

Thanks! Seem's like I'll have a lot of rinsing to do tonight lol.. I have a HOB filter should I just turn it off and let everything settle before turning it back on?

 

[Diana]

If the intake is higher above the substrate then that is safer. but I would give it a couple of hours to settle, if needed.

Set up the tank, rock, driftwood, and plant it, misting the plants.

When you are ready to fill the tank put a plate or plastic bag over the substrate and run the water in slowly so it seeps over the edges and into the substrate. That will minimize the clouding.