How much LR?

[RNall]

Back on topic: A few years ago I ran a very healthy setup with nothing more than a dsb, lots of LR and 2 part additives....10% water changes every 6-8 weeks. It was a 72 bow, up for 2 years (had to sell because of a move). I have a skimmer now, more for insurance than anything though. I run it 24/7 but it's tuned way down. my nitrates are higher now but they are dropping.

[JeremyGlen]

Yes, tap water as top off is going to raise your nitrates and dissolved solids. Information like that should be included in your first post cause that is probably the cause of your troubles.

As for the filter floss, any kind that you use should be cleaned at least weekly to prevent any build-up of detritus.

Any time you have a problem that pops up, think back to anything you have done differntly in the past few months and that is a good place to start to find the cause.

[RNall]

AAbsolutely - tap water! I missed that with my jabbering.