or odor. The harrowing technique is not approved by Triple Quest or
by Dr. David Manz, the inventor of the BioSand technology. Harrow-
ing causes three problems. The first is temporary destruction of the
biological layer after every cleaning. Restoration can take 5–14 days,
during which time filter effectiveness is compromised. The second
problem is poor taste, discoloration, and odor. The third is eventual
clogging of the filter, which will require removal/cleaning of filter media
or its replacement.
Note 2:
The biological layer requires protecting, nurturing, and
maintaining. It is the life of the Hydraid
®
BioSand Water Filter. It is
important that the biological layer be treated gently. It is a delicate
living system and can be easily damaged or destroyed if not
protected. Damage to the biological layer may reduce the
effectiveness of the filter. A constant 5 cm (2 inch) layer of water
above the sand and the Diffuser Plate prevents incoming water from
disrupting the biological layer.
Actions that harm the biological layer include:
•
Pouring water into the filter without the Diffuser Plate
•
Allowing the paused water depth to become too shallow
•
Putting chlorine into the top of the filter
•
Allowing the paused water to evaporate will kill it
•
Not using the filter for several days can deplete its nutritional
supply. Continuous use can also overtax the natural system.
•
Deep cleaning will cause a portion of the biological layer to be
driven deep below the sand surface where there is little or no
oxygen when the filter is at rest. This causes that portion of the
biological layer to die and decompose, resulting in poor taste,
discoloration, or odor.
Note 3:
Filter Media (Underdrain Gravel, Drainage Gravel and Filtration
Sand) does not require replacement under normal use. Additional
Filtration Sand may need to be added over time due to normal settling
and slow loss associated with biological layer maintenance and main-
tenance of a 5 cm (2 inch) paused water depth. If sand is added, it is
recommended that the top 1–2 cm (1/2–1 inch) of sand and biological
layer be temporarily removed before adding additional sand. The
removed sand and biological layer should be redistributed on top
of the freshly added sand. This will speed recovery and minimize
potential for anaerobic decay of the biological layer.
11
Summary of Contents for BioSand
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