Need Info on Wet/Dry Filtration

[tvanslooten]

I've never used wet/dry filters but from what I've read, it sounds like they are the best for creating the most beneficial filtration - especially for large tanks.

I've been searching high and low for a site that gives details on how to set one of these up - either buying one (and what you need) or building your own from scratch. I've found bits and pieces of information but haven't found a source that puts it all together.

For example, my tank doesn't have an overflow built in it so does that mean I can't use a wet/dry system? If it doesn't, how do I do the "overflow thing" (whatever it is). And if I buy a system that's already to go, does it come with everything I need or do I need to buy other pieces - like the pump, pipes, etc.

 

[StreetCypher]

Here ya go

http://www.sydneycichlid.com/diybtf.html

It doesn't seem very detailed, but a search of this forum will probably get results.

Try this too
http://www.kingvinnie.com/aquaria/diy/

 

[N8DOGG]

I've never used wet/dry filters but from what I've read, it sounds like they are the best for creating the most beneficial filtration - especially for large tanks.

I've been searching high and low for a site that gives details on how to set one of these up - either buying one (and what you need) or building your own from scratch. I've found bits and pieces of information but haven't found a source that puts it all together.

For example, my tank doesn't have an overflow built in it so does that mean I can't use a wet/dry system? If it doesn't, how do I do the "overflow thing" (whatever it is). And if I buy a system that's already to go, does it come with everything I need or do I need to buy other pieces - like the pump, pipes, etc.

I haven't used one YET but I did build two of the DIY bucket trickle filters in the above link. I'm going to use them on a 225 acrylic tank with build in overflows and returns in the bottom also but towards the front of the tank. It is very easy to build your own once you know the principle behind a wet/dry filter. You can even model it after store bought models.

1. The water has to get from your tank to the filter. Over flow box/internal overflow. This will be a gravity feed.
2. It them will go through a filter pad or some other form of mechinacal filtration.
3. Then over some bio materials, bio balls etc. This is your bio filitration.
4. Then the water will go into a sump, just a storage area for extra water, you can put heaters in here, add top off water here and add medications and etc.
5. Then you will need a pump in the sump Water to pump it back into the tank, the out put can be anywhere from hanging back over the tank to coming through the bottom of the tank.

Step 2 and 3 is the Dry part, Step 4 is the wet part of the filter.

That is just the simple version. You can add filter media/bio balls, or just about anything else you want to add. You can use just about any container for the wet/dry filter, bucket, plastic box, fish tank. The pump only needs to be as strong as the amount of water that your overflow can handle. I think a 1" bulkhead is rated around 900gph.

What size tank? If you can get it drilled then you can build your own internal overflow. If you can't or don't want to you can buy/make a hang on overflow and DIY the rest of the way.

If you buy a new tank the already has over flows then I think you still need the bulkheads, standpipes, plumbing pipes, and pump, but this is the DIY route. I'm sure if you got them money you can buy a tank with everything included.

Edit : From this forum

 

[tvanslooten]

Thanks guys

I appreciate the links and all the info. I'll take this and digest it and get to work! One question, though...do you guys agree that wet/dry filters are the best methods to create the most beneficial bacteria? Based on everything I've read, it sounds like that's the case.

 

[RTR]

To me there is no such thing as a "best" filter format in isolation from all other considerations. The best for one application may not be the best for some other application. I use a variety of biofiltration techniques, depending on the particular setup. Wet/Dry is one of those formats.