Advice regarding Under-Gravel Filter

nagukush

nagukush

AC Members
Jan 1, 2008
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Hi Friends !

I have just read that the UG Filter's Plates should always cover the entire Tank's base and no portion of the base should be left without the filter-plates - is this true and important ?

Actually in my tank, I have a few spots that I couldnt cover with the Under Gravel plates and these gaps are just completely filled with the Gravel... is this wrong and will this make my UG Filter ineffective ?

Kindly advice...
Thanks and Best Regards
Kush
 
UGFs are not too popular these days, RUGFs are a better option, but are still not too popular.

Anyway, the object is to cover as much of the bottom of the tank as possible w/ the UGF plates (the best of which are hand made w/ PVC pipe, fittings, a drill, hacksaw, soldering iron and plastic screen). It's OK if there's a little crack around the edges of teh tank or between plates, but if there's a significant portion of substrate that is not on top of a plate, you'll likely wind up w/ excessive anaerobic bateria pockets forming. These tend to release H2S gas intot he water periodically, among other nasty things.
 
I have never seen or had explained to me how an UGF/RUGF causes anaerobic areas. Interesting thought but basically not probable.
 
rbishop said:
I have never seen or had explained to me how an UGF/RUGF causes anaerobic areas. Interesting thought but basically not probable.
Click to expand...



Umm...yeah...wouldnt you get them WORSE w/o a UGF?

anyhoo...in my 36x18 40breeder (RUGF) the plates are for a 36x12.

I added a few holes on the front and back sides of the plates to give more flow....not sure if it helped, but I've had no problems with the 3" of overlap front and back. I'd much prefer full coverage, but that's what the LFS had when i was setting up the tank....and it was on sale :)
 
UGF are not all that bad...they get a bad rap. As water is constantly being pulled in there is no possible way for anaerobic bacteria to build up...

They should cover as best as possible therefore ensuring an even filtration.

Look into RUGF. Much more efficient, just need a simple reversible powerhead.
 
rbishop said:
I have never seen or had explained to me how an UGF/RUGF causes anaerobic areas. Interesting thought but basically not probable.
Click to expand...

I agree not probable but the question was about not covering the entire bottom with filter plate. IF the gravel was deep enough in a place there was no water flow (therefor oxygen) then yes, they could become anaerobic. Is this a situation where you're using a standard sized plate in an uncommon shaped tank or undersized plates?
 
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