Filter Question

[Kiara]

What should I do if I do need to replace one of the filter pads in my filter? The filter I have has two filter pads, and one of them is torn. I remember reading that you really shouldn't replace them, so do I need to replace it? And if I do, how do I do it and prevent my tank from re-cycling, as it just finished cycling a couple of days ago. Since it has two pads in there, will I be ok replacing one? And is there anything I need to do before adding the new pad, (if in fact I do need to replace it) Thanks

 

[paulthegreat]

With having two pads it should be fine to replace the torn one and if the torn one is going to leak out into the tank then I would say replace it. If the tank is cycled then the benificial bacterium are going the be on the substrate and plants and decorations as well as in the filer medium.

 

[Durbkat]

But if you want to be on the safe side you can take the filter pad that you want to put in the filter and sit it inside the tank for a couple of weeks so bacteria will grow on the new fitler pad