filter question

[Renee1]

If an aquarium has been up and running for about 5 months, is it okay to change the filter?
I'm asking because I have 2 filters right now and I bought a new one so that I would only have one running.
(the two are smaller)
Thanks

 

[Avenolpey]

If you can add the new filter while the two old ones are still running, that would be best. Then once the new filter establishes a bio-colony you can disconnect the old ones one at a time. Don't disconnect them both at once so that the new filter can adjust to the increase in load when you disconnect the first one.

 

[Holly9937]

That is really the best idea (to let it run on the tank for a while and get established before removing the others). However depending on what sort of media you have in the other filters you might be able to temporarily put it in the new filter and gradually replace it with the proper size stuff. (I mean that fits in the new filter)

 

[Kasakato]

Two options:
1) Take all the media out of the 2 smaller filters and move it into the new one
2) Leave them all on for ~1 month.

Option 2 is the best choice, IMO.