Your Lobster Pod has two filter socks which do different jobs
The Lobster Pod filtration system includes two filter socks. One is a mesh sock which holds activated carbon and the other is a fine felt sock which traps smaller particles of waste such as sediment and sand. Both need a little attention from time to time to help keep your filtration system working efficiently.
What is the difference between the mesh and felt filter socks?
Although they’re both called filter socks they do quite different jobs.
The mesh sock holds the activated carbon which helps remove impurities from the seawater. The carbon is part of the filtration process and needs replacing periodically rather than simply being rinsed and reused indefinitely.
The fine felt sock acts as a mechanical filter. It catches small particles of sediment and sand that have passed through the earlier stages of filtration. As these particles collect the sock gradually becomes clogged and restricts the flow of water through it.
How often should you clean the filter socks in your Lobster Pod?
We recommend rinsing the filter socks when they become clogged and water starts to overflow from the top. You don’t need to change them every time you carry out maintenance but it’s worth checking them regularly.
The frequency will depend on how much waste is being produced in your system. A Lobster Pod holding a large number of shellfish may need more frequent attention than one with very little stock.
The important thing is to keep an eye on the socks rather than relying on a fixed cleaning schedule.
What happens if the filter socks overflow?
Don’t worry if you notice water overflowing from the filter socks. The Lobster Pod filtration chamber is designed so that the water can cascade over the top of the socks if they become clogged.
This means the water can continue flowing through the system rather than leaving the pump at risk of running dry.
Overflowing socks are simply a sign that it’s time to remove them and give them a rinse. It’s a useful reminder to carry out a little routine maintenance.
When should you change the activated carbon?
At Todd Fish Tech we recommend replacing the activated carbon every time you change the seawater in your Lobster Pod.
The activated carbon helps remove impurities from the water but over time it becomes less effective. Replacing it as part of your normal water-change routine is a straightforward way of keeping on top of this part of the filtration system.
We can supply activated carbon and a bag is included with your new Lobster Pod when it’s delivered.
How do you replace the activated carbon in a Lobster Pod?
Changing the activated carbon is a simple job. Remove the mesh sock from its holder and dispose of the old carbon which can be composted. Before you start make sure any cleaning cloths or detergents are well out of the way to avoid accidentally contaminating the filtration equipment.
Give the mesh sock a rinse and then add the fresh activated carbon. We recommend rinsing the new carbon under the tap before putting it back into the system as it can be quite dusty. The dust isn’t normally a problem for the tank but rinsing it away helps keep things tidy.
Once the fresh carbon has been rinsed you can return the mesh sock to its holder in the filtration chamber.
The felt sock can also be removed and rinsed before being returned to the other holder.
Why is filter sock maintenance important?
Filter socks are just one part of the Lobster Pod filtration system but they have an important job to do.
The felt sock helps remove fine particles from the water while the activated carbon helps remove impurities that aren’t captured by mechanical filtration. Both work alongside the other filtration components to help maintain good water quality for your live shellfish.
Like most maintenance jobs on a Lobster Pod it’s straightforward once you know what to look for. Keeping an eye on the filter socks and changing the carbon when you change the seawater will help keep this part of your filtration system working as it should.
Last updated November 2026
