Newbie Question

[Ammck]

Hi all! Newbie here. IM just getting my system started. I’m going with a deep sand bed in my 85 gal glass tank. My question is should I rinse out the sand before I put it to my tank? Thus far I have been told that I should, and also that I shouldn’t. I was told, the reason not to rinse out the sand was because I would lose some of the key ingredients in the sand. By the way I am using Southdown.
I would appreciate you opinions
Thanks! Alex

PS IM sure ill be having more questions in the near future.

[ziggy]

Its not necessary to rince your sand the really fine stuff is helpful, it will just take awhile longer to settle. Leave the pumps off and after it settles turn the pumps back on and watch it get stired back up but it will settle more quickly this time.

[RWD]

Some people do, some don't. IMO I wouldn't rinse it because of what you said, you will lose some of the finer "silt" that makes up the sandbed. The finer particles will blow around for a week or so but will finally settle down after they get coated wit a biofilm. Welcome BTW

[ziggy]

BTW welcome and where in detroit? It used to be when we told others we are from detroit it commanded respect, back when detroit was known for fires and murder. Now we have the red wings and other than that we've fallen off the national charts.

GO WINGS

[Ammck]

Ziggy,
Again, thanks for your reply.
I live in the Suburbs of Detoit, Livonia.
Yes Go Wings!

[thefatman]

don't feel too bad. i'm in toledo.. and when i tell people i'm from toledo they say... what state is that in?

[Ammck]

Thanks fatman!
Go mudhens!