FalconStorm
Fish Crazy
- Joined
- Apr 20, 2005
- Messages
- 330
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Okay, my tank is cycled, but fairly new. I managed to get it cycled in three weeks and I've had it for about a month, now. I know that I can't count on anything being stable right now, but I have a question about the filter. I suspect that the cartridge with the charcoal in it needs to be changed, but I'm not sure how often. I'm disinclined to trust the package instructions as the manufacturer is going to want me to change it often so I'll buy their products more, right?
So, I'd like some advice on how often to change the cartridge. Also, the spongy media that has a bunch of my bacteria in it. I know I don't change it, but shouldn't it be rinsed every now and again? How often should I do that and what precautions should I take to avoid killing off too many of the beneficial bacteria?
Also, please keep in mind that I do tend to overstock. I keep up weekly water changes of 20%-25% so it doesn't seem to be much of a problem so far, and I keep a very close eye on my water parameters. Oh yeah...it's a ten gallon tank too. Dunno if that makes a difference or not.
Thanks for any help.
So, I'd like some advice on how often to change the cartridge. Also, the spongy media that has a bunch of my bacteria in it. I know I don't change it, but shouldn't it be rinsed every now and again? How often should I do that and what precautions should I take to avoid killing off too many of the beneficial bacteria?
Also, please keep in mind that I do tend to overstock. I keep up weekly water changes of 20%-25% so it doesn't seem to be much of a problem so far, and I keep a very close eye on my water parameters. Oh yeah...it's a ten gallon tank too. Dunno if that makes a difference or not.
Thanks for any help.