Filter pads

[Whitey]

When you guys come to giving these a clean how do u do it?

External filters.

 

[rayjay999]

I just give them a light swish in the bucket of tank water I took out during a water change. Not too much though.

 

[Whitey]

How often should u do it? and how often should u buy new ones?

Iv never had an external filter before so i have no idea btw.

 

[rayjay999]

I do it once weekly when I change the water. I don't think you should replace them as they have beneficial bacteria on them. I think the only time you should replace them is if they are falling apart to the point where you can't use them anymore.

 

[Whitey]

Once a week? really, i didnt think it was that often. :0

 

[rayjay999]

That's just how I do it... I'm sure other people have different methods. You should find what works for you.

 

[Whitey]

What about everyone else? how often do u clean yours and how?

 

[Bloo]

That's how almost everybody else will do it too
(that is by rinsing it out in the weekly siphoned water and replacing whatever media is necessary to replace as and when it looks like it needs replacing).

 

[Whitey]

oh i heard u as only ment to clean the pads every month coz of lost bacteria.

 

[Bloo]

not if you're rinsing it out in the siphoned tank water. It also depends on your stocking levels. I you over filtrated and understock, you will be less likely to have to clean them that often. But on average (and in my opinion) I would say once a week.