Plenums- Good or bad?

[SalTee]

I've been thinking about installing a Plenum in my tank for a while, but i've been finding very different opinions on them. Some sources have claimed that they're a Filtration Holy Grail, while others have said that they'll wipe out your tank given just half a chance. Anybody have thoughts? First-hand experience is greatly appreciated. Thanks!

[Reefland]

After reviewing your other thread, stick with what you have. Good liverock, protein skimming and a good water change schedule is more than enough.

[The R/C Man]

I have to agree with Scott.... Although I am sure the plenum systems work well enough there is a better than average chance to polute your tank should something go wrong. Consider the fact that the whole plenum is filled acid you can imagine what would happen should it get into the water column....

[kansasboys]

ok were new to this board and i just need to put in my 2 cents on the plemum. I had 2 reefs set up for 3 years both with plenums. we never had any problems and the only filteration we used other than live rock and power heads were a skimmer every 2 days on 2 days off, and a hot magnium with carbon 2 days on 2 days off, we never did water changes just toped off with ro fresh water daily. the only chemicals we ever added was iodine. the reef never had a problem with spikes.

[Reefland]

Hi kansasboys,

Plenums can definitely be successful, but most people use, and recommend, simpler methods today. But as you mention, they can definitely work out.

[ReefHog]

There is a great article in the 2007 Annual Marine Fish and Reef USA by J. Charles Delbeek.

Magazine Link

[Ninong]

Dr. Rob Toonen has investigated this question. You can read the abstract here.

He discussed his experiment here and here.

[alizar185]

I also am in the stages of planning my 110 gal. reef aquarium. I don't see the disadvantages as clearly as those of you that have replied to this thread, then again I'm about to be a novice. I guess I just don't see how too much natural filtration can be a bad thing.