Filox vs Mangox vs Pyrolox: What is the Difference Between These Iron Filter Media?

We often get questions about iron filter media here at Clean Water Systems. Many people seem overwhelmed by the breadth of options available when shopping for an iron filter, and with all sorts of tanks, valves, and filter media available, it’s not hard to see why.

That’s why we wanted to take some time to explain the differences between popular filter media so that next time you shop for an iron filter, you can make the right choice confidently.

Pro-OX, Filox, MangOX, and Pyrolox are all brand names for solid manganese dioxide filter media. We sell the Pro-OX brand, which is a high-quality and particularly powerful manganese dioxide media.

These media types are made from more than 80% pure manganese ore, which is naturally mined, processed, and independently tested and certified by NSF for drinking water. Due to its purity, it is collected and processed specifically for water treatment.

Some other countries offer solid manganese media of much lower purity (usually less than 50%), which is why Pro-OX is generally considered the gold standard in iron filter media.

Pro-OX is slightly more porous and contains higher levels of oxidizing elements than other manganese dioxide media, and we find it superior.

Some people choose to forego solid manganese media in their filter and instead use coated manganese media like Greensand or Birm.  These media use a light manufactured coating of manganese oxide over silica or other granular minerals to effectively filter iron from water.

Solid and coated manganese media are similarly effective, but solid media will last much longer.  In fact, we’ve had reports of customers who are still using solid manganese media that they purchased as far back as 1990!

On the other hand, Greensand will last about 5 years before the manganese coating starts to wear off and the media requires changing.  The trade-off is that solid manganese media is more expensive and significantly heavier than coated manganese media like Greensand.

Because the process of backwashing requires lifting and fluidizing the media bed from the bottom up, heavier media requires a higher backwash flow rate.

Solid media weighs about 120-140 lbs per cubic foot, while Greensand weighs in at about 80 lbs per cubic foot.  Greensand can thus be advantageous for users whose well pump’s flow rate is insufficient to backwash solid media.

Generally, we prefer solid manganese media (Pro-OX) because it lasts longer, is more powerful, and allows for higher flow rates.  It has a stronger oxidizing ability than coated media like Greensand, so the service flow rate through the filter tends to be higher.   This means that a smaller filter tank can be used, which in turn uses less water and takes up less space.

If iron bacteria are present, we recommend a chlorine feeder before an iron filter to oxidize iron, making it easier to filter and kill any iron bacteria that may be present.

Introduction

Iron filter media is crucial in removing iron and manganese from water. Various options are available, and it’s essential to understand the differences between them to make an informed decision. This article will explore the different types of iron filter media and their characteristics, effectiveness, and maintenance requirements.

Iron Filter Media Options

There are several types of iron filter media available, including:

• Solid manganese dioxide filter media (e.g., Pro-OX, Filox, MangOX)
• Coated manganese media (e.g., Greensand)
• Birm
• Pyrolox

Each type of media has its unique characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages. For example, solid manganese dioxide filter media is considered the gold standard in iron filter media due to its high purity and effectiveness.

Characteristics and Effectiveness

The effectiveness of iron filter media depends on several factors, including its purity, density, and surface area. Solid manganese dioxide filter media, for instance, has a higher purity (>80%) and density (120-140 lbs per cubic foot) compared to coated manganese media (e.g., Greensand). This results in a stronger oxidizing ability and higher service flow rate.

Coated manganese media, on the other hand, uses a light coating of manganese oxide over silica or other granular minerals. While it’s less expensive than solid manganese dioxide filter media, it’s generally less effective and has a shorter lifespan.

Choosing the Right Filter Media for Your Iron Filter

When selecting the right filter media for your iron filter, consider the following factors:

• Iron and manganese levels in your water
• Flow rate requirements
• Space constraints
• Maintenance preferences
• Budget

Solid manganese dioxide filter media is generally preferred due to its longer lifespan and higher service flow rate. However, coated manganese media may be a better option for users with insufficient well pump flow rates or those who prioritize affordability.

Maintenance and Cost Considerations

Regular maintenance is crucial to ensure the effectiveness and longevity of your iron filter media. This includes:

• Backwashing: Regular backwashing is necessary to remove accumulated iron and manganese from the media.
• Replacing the media: Depending on the type of media, replacement may be necessary every 5-20 years.
• Chlorine injection: Chlorine injection may be required to enhance the media’s performance and lifespan.

The cost of iron filter media varies depending on the type and quality. Solid manganese dioxide filter media is generally more expensive than coated manganese media. However, its longer lifespan and higher effectiveness may justify the additional cost.

In conclusion, selecting the right iron filter media is crucial for effective iron and manganese removal. By understanding the characteristics, effectiveness, and maintenance requirements of different media options, you can make an informed decision that meets your specific needs and budget.

Final Thoughts

We hope this post makes choosing iron filter media a little less overwhelming.

If you have any further questions or comments about iron filters or other water treatment systems, e-mail us at or message us on Facebook. We would love to hear from you.

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