replaced bio balls with live rock now i have micro bubbles in DT

[BioMan]

I cycled my 120 gallon tank and 2 chamber sump (skimmer is connected outside of sump with tubes. I recently replaced the bio balls with live rock and now I have microbubbles in the display tank. I though maybe the water is dropping so far down (was packed to top with bio balls, now halfway with live rock) the foam created is going to the return pump. was thinking of buying a new sump, but because I didnt have those bubbles before its not the sump.

 

[jackson6745]

Air is getting to your return pump one way or another. If it's a persistent problem you're going to have to add another baffle to allow bubbles to pop before they are pumped into your display. Or since water is actually falling onto the rocks you can extend the drain line below the water level in your sump and use a micron filter bag over the outlet. You don't want your tank water with food and waste polluting your rock rubble. This will be counterproductive.

 

[BioMan]

i've actually got a polishing, filter pad at the return before it trickles onto the rock. I tossed some sponges on top of the rock but theres still bubbles in there now. it was initially a fish only tank so maybe the sump is too small, if it was empty there isnt really room for any baffles. it barely has enough room for the skimmer pump, 2 return pumps and the pump i have for the 2 reactors (1carbon,1GFO).

 

[jackson6745]

sounds like it's time for a new sump You can make an effective one out of an empty fish tank, or even a rubbermaid.

 

[BioMan]

I was afraid of that. I cant find one on here,,might have to make one. I have a spare 65 gallon tank I might be able to use...Thanks for your help.

 

[lnevo]

If your drain isnt going to the water line that will help a lot if you can extend it.

+1 on filter sock

Also i think petco may be running their $1/gallon sale...

 

[rambler67]

It sound like it is from the water drop. a pic would be help full.

 

[MysticalKnight]

I think the 1$ per gallon sale is going on right now

 

[Trump]

picture

i've actually got a polishing, filter pad at the return before it trickles onto the rock. I tossed some sponges on top of the rock but theres still bubbles in there now. it was initially a fish only tank so maybe the sump is too small, if it was empty there isnt really room for any baffles. it barely has enough room for the skimmer pump, 2 return pumps and the pump i have for the 2 reactors (1carbon,1GFO).

 

[BioMan]

jpg images

 

[rambler67]

it has to be from the water drop you can ether get filter socks or srap the pad and just put a peace of pvc pipe so the water doesnt drop that far

 

[Ariel110G]

Its from the big water fall that you have there and the fact that you have big pices of rock there, get rubble rock and fill it call to the top!!! U can keep the big pieces in there but add rubble rock on top. I a similar setup but with a refuguim after that section.