Buying A New Filter

[onidrase]

I'm getting a new tank off somebody tomorrow, and it's in running condition (well, I had to buy a water heater, but otherwise, it's in running condition) but I'm not sure what kind of filter it comes with, or if I'm gonna like it, being a big fan of biowheel filters.

It may be a while before I can get a biowheel, and I've never changed an entire filter with a tank in use before, and I'm wondering what I might be doing to my tank if I pull out a filter and put in a preferred kind, if I put fish in before I change filters?

Also, if there is risk involved, are there any methods to make it not so harmful?

Thanks much

 

[CezzaXV]

Shouldnt be a problem as long as you transfer all of your media into the new filter.

 

[HayzH]

Shouldnt be a problem as long as you transfer all of your media into the new filter.

+1....and make sure the filter has been cycled PROPERLY before adding fish

 

[onidrase]

Shouldnt be a problem as long as you transfer all of your media into the new filter.

If the old media doesn't fit, would I be able to run the new filter on the opposite side of the tank until it's good, while having the old filter do its thing?

 

[BigbruiserAl]

make the media fit, cut it up if you have to it will be best. If not you will have to run the other filter side by side for over 6 weeks then whn you take it out watch for a mini spike as your putting more bio back on the lone filter

 

[onidrase]

make the media fit, cut it up if you have to it will be best. If not you will have to run the other filter side by side for over 6 weeks then whn you take it out watch for a mini spike as your putting more bio back on the lone filter

Chances are, I'll be getting a bigger filter if I decide to upgrade it, so cutting up shouldn't be necessary, at least, I don't think so

Thanks for the advice, though, I'll keep this all in mind <3