When Do I Change The Filter Pads/substrate?

[Nerwign]

I know that beneficial bacteria will be living in my filter, and I know that the pads/media can be cleaned by rinsing with dechlorinated water, but it also seems like the pads/substrate needs to get replaced sometimes, and I'm not sure when. Is there some rule of thumb?

In addition, should I replace just some of it at a time or all of the media at once? I would think this might remove too much bacteria from the filtration system. Any help is appreciated!

-Nerwign

 

[dylema]

Hi,

Only change a bit at a time (i.e. one filter pad). you should hardly ever need to change things like the ceramic noodles or bioballs etc. if you have them.

What kind of filter do you have? When you cannot get the sponges/wool clean any more and your filter is running slow then you might need to change the sponge/wool.

Hope this helps

Dylan

 

[Nerwign]

Thank you for your help. The only filters I've had personal experience with are the undergravel type and since those aren't actually very good, I went with an Eheim Eco 2234 for the tank I'm setting up now.

But having never used a canister filter (or really any filter with media) I didn't know when I would change the stuff in it. Thank you for your help!!

-Nerwign