Filters.

[akago105]

What I have done in the past with my filters is just change them when they look dirty or if they weren't that bad I would just wash them off, but after hearing that beneficial bacteria lives in the filter, I was wondering, when do you think the best time to change a filter is.
I've been looking for hours on a topic like this, but I haven't found one yet.
Opinions?

 

[tkdjr1186]

You never want to change your media. The stores and manufacturers want you to change your filter stuff monthly to make more money.

Biological filter I.e. your ceramic rings etc. should never be changed once established.

Mechanical I.e your sponges can be rinsed in your tank water in a bucket during water changes to clear out debris.

Hope this helps

 

[akago105]

What about Carbon Filters?
I have a hang on the side filter that has a sponge-like filter and carbon filter. Tetra-Whisper for 20-30 gallon tanks.
And what are ceramic rings?

 

[tkdjr1186]

What about Carbon Filters?
I have a hang on the side filter that has a sponge-like filter and carbon filter. Tetra-Whisper for 20-30 gallon tanks.
And what are ceramic rings?

Carbon is not necessary unless you are removing medicines. Every filter is different but there is always something that your bacteria can grow on. Usually it is in the shape of little ceramic rings or other such things. Not sure on your specific filter but you should be able to get a bag of the rings and place them in your filter.