Ceramic Filter Media

[andyw823]

In my Rena XP3 i have one tray fully loaded with ceramics, i have recently be informed that they should be replaced every 3-6 months, is this correct and why?

 

[shroob]

Where did you hear that? In my opinion its sales spin, have you noticed the price of the stuff.... no wonder the manufacturers want you to replace it . Really though, I wouldn't replace them, its where all the good bacteria live. A rinse in tank water every 3-6 months and they should be as good as new (better actually as they have the bacteria on them).

I have heard the arguement that the cracks/pores get blocked over time, but put it this way, I've had the same ceramic rings for over 8 years now, in 3 different filters and they seem to be doing the job.

 

[Noahs ark6]

You dont need to replace ceramic rings but you do need to replace activated carbon.

 

[andyw823]

I heard it from someone that has just started out in the hobby, also i had a look at the instructions on a box in my lfs and that said replace every 6 months. Iv`e had no problems so far so there staying in!