Cleaning Filter Socks

[newenglandreef]

How do you do this without using normal water and leaching phosphates?

 

[JayM]

When I was using them, I threw mine in the washing machine, with hot water and bleach, then do a 'double rinse' cycle. I let them air dry.

I cannot imagine there are many phosphates I am adding back in.....

 

[newenglandreef]

Is it the drying that gets rid of the phosphates? Of the hot water/bleach?

Why did you stop using them? Seems the water is pretty clear with them.

 

[Rone]

I take 1 cup of bleech to 2 gallons of HOT water.
I then give the socks alittle rub down to help losing up the junk.
Let it sit for 24 hours with a lid on the bucket.
Then rinse good and dry.
They come out looking new.

 

[jtmac]

wont the bleach hurt the system if there is a little left on the sock???

 

[Rone]

wont the bleach hurt the system if there is a little left on the sock???

Been doing this for awhile now with no effects. Did some research online and this seems to be the way most people do it. Just be sure to rinse good and let it dry.

 

[newenglandreef]

That's the way Tropic Isle suggested I do it too...

I also don't get how the phosphates, silicates and other chemicals don't remain on the sock.

 

[JayM]

They rinse out.....

if you want to be a maniac, soak your cleaned socks in RODI for 24 hours, and then test for nitrates and phosphates....

 

[newenglandreef]

really great idea, I'll post results...