We are the only company that provides 4 different grades of media fleece in the market. The reason why we offer these options, is that we found through research that these micron grades are beneficial for the typical marine reef and freshwater systems.

Each system is different so there is a wide selection of microns. With micron sizes what changes on the media fleece of the X Filter, is the  average size of particles that are let through. So for an example, on the 32 micron fleece, on average any particles larger than 32 microns won’t go through.

The smaller the microns, the more restrictive the media fleece is and has more tight tolerances in allowing particles to go through. The main benefit of using this type of filtration is that it helps other means of filtration as well, and more importantly the skimmer.

We have found that the skimmer with lower microns could also become obsolete to some extent. This gives the opportunity for the system to require a smaller rated skimmer which helps in initial costs, running costs  and benefits the limited real estate of a typical sump.

Main features based on media fleece microns:

9 Microns: Ideal for systems that are going through some kind of trouble and can even be used on hospital tanks. We’ve found systems that are running with 9 micros are relieved in the case of a parasitic outbreak. It also helps with systems that have cyanobacteria and dinoflagellates, as it filters out many of the spores or bacterial mulm.

Another use is to have it in hand for a periodic use or a complete cycle of filter roll change when other microns are used, to further polish the water and remove any impurity buildup from the system. Good for maintenance in general.

17 Microns: These microns are ideal for systems that the user requires polished water constantly and a higher control of excess nutrients. This grade can be used constantly and helps keep a good balance in a reef aquarium with a heavy bioload.

Water clarity is really good with this grade and limits the light reflection from particles in the water. The water literally seems invisible and is ideal for systems with a smaller skimmer. There have been reports that systems required limited, if any, water changes.

25 Microns: Here we have a good balance between media fleece consumption and for systems with a lighter bioload that don’t require too aggressive nutrient export. There’s still a good level of water polishing and water clarity but with the benefit of having more time between filter roll changes. The skimmer can still benefit from the use of 25 microns, but not as much as with the 17 microns, so colour of water and nutrients will need to be monitored.

32 Microns: Good for systems that have never used a roller filter before and for breaking in the filter. Depending on how old the system is and the frequency of water changes, these microns help a lot in bringing high nutrient tanks down slowly. We do suggest though to lower the microns after a balance has come to your system and require better water clarity and polishing

Ideal for tanks that don’t require great water polishing and/or already have really low nutrients. For new systems it is good to monitor progress as new livestock is added.