Hi ive had a top fin power filter running on my 29g fw for almost a month now. Being a noob i added abunch of fish in probably way to early. Anyway, ive had about 9 fish for 3 weeks now, none have died and im crossing my fingers, hoping to make it through the cycling process. IN regards to changing out my carbon media that came with my power filter (HOB), is four weeks a good time to do that. Ive heard that in doin so I will be getting rid of helpful bacteria, assuming i have some. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
first filter change??
- Thread starter rusty-nail-z
- Start date
If you are still cycling then leave the filter in. Make sure that you are fully cycled. Taking the filter out now could take some of the bacteria you are trying to establish. This could make the cycle restart and take longer. Your tank will be fine if you leave it in there for the cycle. I have run filter cartridges in my tanks for a couple of months with no problems. You should be testing your water daily at least. I would recommend using liquid test kits since they tend to be the most accuarate. And make sure that you do partial water changes until you are cycled. There are stickys about cycling at the top of the forum if you need more info.
What are your water parameters? What kind of fish are the nine you have. If the filter pad appears clogged and water is starting to bypass, rinse or squeeze it clean in some of the old tank water you are removing on a water change. You are doing water changes, correct?
And I would replace the carbon weekly at minimum using a high quality degassed version, not phosphate washed, especially if you have refillable bags.
And I would replace the carbon weekly at minimum using a high quality degassed version, not phosphate washed, especially if you have refillable bags.