So we recently got the Phos-Zorb I ordered to help cut down on our occassionally algae-bloom problem. We found out our tank has a low level of phosphates (~0.25 ppm), but our tap had a modest level (~1 ppm). I haven't used it yet because the water has been fairly clear the last few days. I also don't really feel I want to move the phosphate down to zero, because I'm perfectly fine with the brown algae we have on the rocks, because he enjoys snacking on it. I don't want to be adding a ton of phosphate during water changes, but neither do I really want to kill all the algae (I know, I'm being picky!)

I had a thought about maybe, rather than put the Phos-Zorb in the filter/tank, I could put it in the water we have sitting out in buckets/bowls, that is next to go into the tank. This would allow some phosphate to stay in the tank, but would mean that our water changes wouldn't add a bunch of phosphate to the water because the new water would be phosphate free (or close to it). I realize its not entirely as effecient if it's not in running water, but I could stir it up on occassion, and I'd least it'd be somewhat effective.

Anyone think this sounds like a particularly good/bad idea?

The only problem I see is that the Phos pad will need to be in running water, if there was a way to have a filter or pump to run the water you want over the pad dont see why not