Top of Skippy filter

[bsr8129]

For thise that have the DYI filter with a 55 gal drum or other, what do you have on the very top of the filter, or what does the top of your filter look like? Mine has a rather large layer of alge growing on the top of my material thats keeping the filter media in place. I have also noticed a large collection of bugs flying around and in the top level of water.

 

[DrCase]

That sounds about right
I cut round plastic lids to cover mine

 

[DrDave]

Here is a shot of mine. The block structure that is on 3 sides of the top provide a nice place for the sign that tops mine.

 

[bsr8129]

Ok sounds like I'm not the only one with the problem. Unfotuanly I used the top as my bottom grate and I threw away the metal ring so I can't rig up something with the extra liner I have. Have to get creative now

 

[mrsclem]

I have a 150gal. stocktank filter and used an old piece of green vinyl lattice cut to fit inside the top of the tank.

 

[koiguy1969]

just fill the top with hiacynths or lettuce or even frogbit or any floating plant...getting the extra veggy filtration is a plus!!

 

[bsr8129]

i tried the hiacynths but they didnt do so well and died off, i also noticed that when i had them in there the bug issues got worse. I have some lettuce that i might put in there and see how well it works.

 

[DrDave]

I am done with hyacinths. Too much trouble for an occasional flower. The water lettuce works outstanding for filtration and algae control. It also provides good cover from predators.

 

[hewhoisatpeace]

Try Elephant ear. I use the giant, grows well in the media, has pretty extensive roots, and will fill the top of a 55g drum in very little time. Just watch the tendrils, unless you want them all around the filter, too.

 

[DrDave]

Elephant Ear AKA Taro.
My 2nd biggest seller. Why would you put this in the top of a 55 gallon drum? First of all you have to anchor its roots with heavy rocks, then once it gets going, it will completley stop water from rising up to the overflow.

 

[hewhoisatpeace]

We'll see, I guess. I use it in my 100g stock tank, but I really don't think a plant would stop water. I do think the roots would not only be a veggie filter, but be a great amount of surface area for aerobic bacteria to grow.

That said, it is hard to beat dwarf hyacinth, and their compost value is outstanding.