How important is it to replace carbon? Built into filter cartridges?

Just leave the carbon there or don't use cartridges that have it.

The carbon does become un-effective after a short while, but it will not release anything back into the tank. It will serve as a very effective surface for bacteria growth.

Most the carbon found in those cartridges is of a low quality and insufficeint volume. While you do not need it for most situations, for some people it helps like no water change can.
 
I replaced the carbon cartridge in my Aqua One 380 with Eheim substrate and put the black sponge back on top. After a week or so of cycling (and daily water changes) my ammonia and nitrites zeroed out and stayed there.
 
I don't use carbon either. When I did use it I had a diatom problem as it enhanced the phosphates in my water. Since I quit I have very clear water.
 
Umm..carbon can not enhance phosphates...
 
Actually, cheap carbon can increase phosphates because it is washed with something that contains phosphates. I just read that somewhere...

Anyway, yeah, carbon (unless it's cheap w/phosphates, lol) can't harm your tank. The only thing it really does is remove tannins from wood, smells, and meds. There is no real need to have it unless you've got a problem with those, but it won't hurt either.
 
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