Today I purchased a new filter to replace the filtration not being managed by the bog. The bog has been putting out some gross sludge on top of the gravel which i am sure can not be healthy, nor easily cleaned.
The new filter is 44″x24″x36″deep thick plastic black box which is adequate for my < 3500 GPH usual flow. It has a 2″ inlet from the pump and two 3″ outlets. Water will upflow through a grate, then 3 layers of matting. The water will gravity flow into the bog box which will be emptied of its gravel and filled with floating plants and maybe some in planters. I will bury it up to the upper outlets so that only about 9 inches will be above ground. For back flushing the filter I will put a 3 way valve near the pump so I can divert the water back to the waste line. This will come in handy for doing quick water drainage from the pump too.
Filter purchased at wetpets for a very reasonable price ($500) compared to other large filters. I couldn’t find a large box for what I paid for this filter which came pre-drilled with bulkheads, has internal grate, and filter mats included. Chuck also has 44″x44″ filter boxes too.
So here is the new plan:
Dig hole for new filter (1-2 days depending on rocks.)
Plumb inlet side of filter with new pipe in back of raised bed toward the pump and waste. (3hours)
Move pump and redesign pump outlet plumbing so it can flow to the filter and reduce piping to jets to 3/4″ and flow through small filter for jet filtration. will need a 2″ to 3/4 reducer and ball valve for shut off.(2 hours)
Clean out bog (2 hours)
Eventually redo plumbing from skimmer and bottom drain to bury it and reduce number of pipes exposed.
Figure out logical place for UV when added.
