switching over to sand questions

[zenins]

I use pool filer sand, very clean, minimal rinsing before putting in the aquarium.
Regarding sand being sucked up into intakes of AquaClears or canister filters, I use an AquaClear filter sponge slipped over the intake, a slit in the top of the sponge allows you to slip it on and it will not slip off by accident. At each partial water change, slip it off, rinse in a bucket of water you just took out of the aquarium, and then slip the sponge back onto the intake
This also increases the time between canister filter cleanings ... yes !

[chuzzv]

I have black tahitian moon sand, that I bought from pet smart, in one of my tanks and I absolutely love it! Cleaning is incredibly easy. I stir it once a month and just suck up the debris off the surface of the sand. It's great and looks fantastic. I get so many compliments from it. I bought powder fine sand once and the tank was always hazy and cleaning was an absolute mess. I ended up getting rid of it and switching that tank to moon sand as well. It's great. You won't regret it.