Henry...
the 10 Lbs of
LR is quite low.. that is part of the issue.
the filter (emperor 280) is another major issue, these filters use bio-wheels. which are super
nitrite removers, but
nitrite is removed by converting them to
nitrates, which makes them super
nitrate factories.
a canister filter will only amplify this effect.
1. remove the bio-wheel - they are
nitrate factories and only meant for
FO tanks
2. add another inch or two to the sand bed - will help a lot with
nitrate removal
3. remove the polyfilter - if not replaced all the time they are detrius traps and eventually lead to increased
nitrate
4. replace polyfilter with carbon, or ditch the emperor all together - with a good
skimmer,
DSB, enough
LR and enough current you really done need this at all...
5. opt for a better
skimmer. - a good
skimmer will be your best piece of equipment
6. add another 3 Lbs of
live rock - this, like the
DSB, is a great tool to reduce
nitrates
7. boost the tank current to about 25-20 tanks an hours - this will help make sure water gets moved through the
LR, helps ensure a good gas exchange, increases tank metabolism, prevents excess detrius build up (which leads to
nitrates)
hope this help.. please let us know if you need further clarification..
