Filter Help

[mjx2]

We have one of those all in one setups with the light and filter included. Its a PenPlax Waterworld. This question probably sounds stupid but does the absorbing pad thing in the filter need to be cleaned? If so how and how often ?? Sorry guys I'm assuming it does but no information about the filter and maintenance came with the tank. Thanks

 

[stang1]

The pads in the filter only need cleaning once every 2-3 weeks but don't use tap water as this will kill off your bacteria. Just rinse them in some of your tank water when you do a water change.

 

[rdd1952]

You should rinse the filter pad any time you do a water change (or every other time) which should probably be once a week. Don't rinse it in tap water though Just swish it around in the old tank water you have just removed. If the tank is small and you aren't removing enough water, just run some tap water in a bucket, add dechlorinator and rinse.

Also, if you just got the tank, I would suggest doing a fishless cycle before you add fish. See the link in my signature.

 

[stang1]

Does it need to be that often? We don't rinse any of ours for 2-3 weeks and this has never caused a problem.

 

[rdd1952]

I have changed it with a parenthesis (sp). Actually, it really depends on how heavily the tank is stocked and how dirty it gets.

 

[stang1]

I have changed it with a parenthesis (sp). Actually, it really depends on how heavily the tank is stocked and how dirty it gets.

Sorry rdd, wasn't disputing your answer, just wondering really.
I know people have different methods and find ways that work for them but I suppose it does depend a lot on the stocking.

 

[WILDER]

Stang I change my filter floss every week, them pads want rinsing weekly as well.

 

[stang1]

I understand what you're saying Wilder but we've never changed them weekly. We do over-filtrate all of our tanks and have never had problems with water stats or fish dying.

 

[WILDER]

Its ok if you have no problems its fine, sometimes the floss can get built up with fine particles.

 

[mjx2]

we've just had the majority of our fish die over night - i think it may be due in some part to us having not cleaned the filter. You're talking about floss, is that the black block of "holey" stuff sitting next to the white "absorption" sort of pad?? Sorry guys its hard to explain.

 

[mjx2]

do we need to replace the filter medium every now and then or just clean it often ??