Carbon and Phosphates?

[tizapolgar]

Hi folks -

I just read that carbon can leech phosphates into a tank. Is this true?

I run carbon all of the time, but I want to change this if it adds phosphates to the tank...that would, you know...suck!

So what's the word, experts?

[jhnrb]

If you must run carbon make sure you use a high grade of carbon. How do you tell, well it is easy. take a bit of carbon and put it in a little water. if it sizzles it is a good grade. These tend to not leach back as readily. The Carbon will actually become a bio filter so replacement of carbon at least every 2 to 3 weeks is advised. continuous carbon use will pull out iodine also and you will need to check and dose. Also continuous use of carbon might raise your nitrates if left in too long. I recommend running carbon for 10 days a month, toss the carbon and do not reuse. hope something here helps.

[tizapolgar]

Thanks! My carbon using habits have been immediately changed!

-Tim