change my filter media help

[aardvark1]

I run an extra filter cart in all my Penguins, clean one at one water change (actually every 2-3 weeks or so) then do the other cart at the next time.

Also, if I set up a new tank (having done this a bit here recently), I have a "seasoned" cart ready to go. Running Penguin 350's on the 55 gallon tanks; I'll swap one of the bio-wheels to a new filter also( P350 uses 2)

Works for me!

 

[hankn]

hankn
unnecessary. also, not advisable because as you already figured out, youd loose the majority of your bacterial filtration. That's the kind you can rinse out. many people suggest swishing it in the bucket of tank water that you take out at water change time. The charcoal in this case becomes just another surface for bacteria to colonize. It isnt necessary for anything other than that under normal circumstances.

Ok. I'll wash the charcoal, but on top of the charcoal filter there is this white cottonish type of material that does the initial filteration and is now stained quite brown. Should I be rinsing this as well or replacing it? What is it called?

Thanks.

 

[Weezer]

Yes i use 4 filters in my bio but only change 2 at a time and try to service the magnum at diferent intervils.....:thm: