Bio Filter media ???

[Scales]

Ive got a merlin fluidised bed filter, when I checked the sand(filter media) yesterday half of it has turned brown there are clumps of sand sticking together. I think I know what the problem is, I added some "filter aid" to the tank which has now turned the sand brown and made it bond together.

I have just spent 2hrs cleaning the canister and sand (didn't really want to do it but no choice ), but its still the same. I need to replace the media, is it ok to use normal aquatic sand or should I buy the proper sand media which is expensive ??


Cheers in advance.

 

[CFC]

To be honest i dont know but i would stick with the sand intended for use in fluidised beds as normal sand may be too dense/heavy to work properly.

You may get a better answer in the marine forums as this type of filter isnt commonly used in freshwater set ups really.