And when you do put in a new carbon, wash it out well under hot water, then dip it in old tank water if you have it, or at least in de-chlorinated water. Then you're good to go.
Like Dave, I don't use carbon (except to remove meds), but I agree with him to leave the carbon in there, for bacteria purposes, until well after cycling is done. If you've already changed it and it's too late, don't change the new one. Just rinse it in old tank water and put it back. Same with any other media in your filter. Don't replace it, just rinse it in old tank water.
Like Dave, I don't use carbon (except to remove meds), but I agree with him to leave the carbon in there, for bacteria purposes, until well after cycling is done. If you've already changed it and it's too late, don't change the new one. Just rinse it in old tank water and put it back. Same with any other media in your filter. Don't replace it, just rinse it in old tank water.
