Bioscrubber For Filter- Does It Work?

[gwd]

Hi,
 
does the bioscrubber in the wisper filter really work for keeping the good bacteria?
They say to change the filter(filled with carbon) every month- but isnt this where the bacteria's live?
 
My question is when I change the old filter out for the new one will I loose all my good bacteria or will the biosrubber really hold enough to keep my cycle?
 
I had a 10 gal previously with a simular style filter. When I changed it i lost my cycle and I do not want this to happen again.
Currently have 20 gal started with tetra safestart and a betta( who lived thru the 10 gal cycle crash)
 
 Done some research and I plan on making my own filter using ammo-carb inside a filter bag inside a pocket made in sponge filter(so that the chem bag can be removed/changed without loosing bacteria in sponge)
 
thanks for any replies!!
 

 

[Chad]

I've used a lot of Whisper filters and my experience with them is positive. The filter cartridge is to remove particulate matter and the carbon inside is to remove dissolved organic matter that can yellow the water and cause odor. The aerobic bacteria live on the bio scrubber which is a modern version of a sponge. It's designed to have a lot of surface area for maximum bacterial growth.

 

[frapadoodle]

Using a tetra filter myself, the bioscrubber is just a thin sponge.
They recomend changing the cartridge monthly for two reasons, one they want you to buy more, and two, carbon clogs, (not the scientific term), after a few days.
Many will say that carbon unless removing meds is not needed.
The organics that yellow the water and cause smells, are taken out with proper filtration and water changes. It's a holdover, from when Iwas a boy and we didn't do water changes, just replaced what evaporated.

 

[Chad]

This is it on the newer models. Just so we have a reference. There's a green one and a blue one depending on size.

 

[frapadoodle]

Looks like a floor scrubber to me.
Think i'll stick with sponge and ceramic myself.

 

[Chad]

Actually I ended up being so pleased when they went to these. Lots of O2 and surface area and the don't get gross with particulates and reduce flow. They do call it a scrubber so perhaps they are aware of how it looks. Function is what I'm after.