Carbon Pads.

[Bronson]

I started my fishless cycle 8 days ago and my ammonia level hasn't started 2 drop. I know this can be a slow process, i just wondered if the carbon pads in my u4 filter make any difference. Should i leave them in or take them out. Thanks.

 

[StandbySetting]

Take them out, they're a waste of time and aren't worth having, only use when removing meds.

 

[BigbruiserAl]

Normally i would take them before putting them in tank and save them for when needed. 8 days there probably near their end any way so leave them in as it adds more surfacce area for bacteria. Bacteria does not care what sponge it homes in so the more area the better

 

[waterdrop]

The carbon being there is not slowing down the progress of your fishless cycle if that's what you're a little worried about. We often see the very first drop in ammonia taking two weeks and even 3 or worse in some cases, so you're just not at the first drop yet, that's all, the carbon has nothing to do with it. As a rule, it's better to just not disturb your media once the fishless cycle is underway, to help things progress as quickly as possible. WD