new refuge container question

[Wally]

I just purchased a 15 gallon tank to replace the plastic one I use for a refuge.

Question: When swap containers it will certainly mix up the 50 lbs of Southdown I have in it. Will this cause a cycle in the sump? And if so I guess Ill just not circulate the water into the main system until I get the ammonia spike.

 

[reefrunner69]

Will this cause a cycle in the sump?

Yep, you can minimize it by trying to maintain your layers as much as possible. You can use a new plastic dustpan to remove the sand and if careful you can maintain the layers of your sand bed to a degree.

 

[Wally]

Good advise Kevin,

I have heard that before about the layers getting mixed up. I never thought of the dustpan trick thanks.

Would you recommend that I watch for an ammonia spike before I start to circulate it into the main system?

 

[reefrunner69]

Would you recommend that I watch for an ammonia spike before I start to circulate it into the main system?

Yes, but I think your likely to get a spike in the tank even if you don't circulate it. It's quite possible the bioload is dependant on the fuge for a bit of nitrification I'd just be ready with water for water changes.