We also just built a Skippy filter and started it up Monday night. My water
had been murky, only being able to see down maybe a foot. WOW this morning,
right to the bottom 4' down. I don't think the media is doing too much yet.
It must be the settling chamber. I do have a fine blanket filter as the top
filter media with WH in the very top.

I am going to use quilt batting on top of the media in the one I buikd
for the goldfish pond...

I am very much impressed with this filter!