Fluval U3 Filter Mediums

[elsamarie]

I have a U3 filter and the literature recommends replacing them as follows:
2 poly/carbon filter pads - replace 1 every 2 weeks
2 foam pads - replace 1 every 3-6 months
biomax nodules - replace every 6 months

Is it necessary to replace them this often? I have in back of my mind that fluval will edge on the more frequent replacement to boost sales of their products - so I dont want to waste money replacing when not necessary but I want to make sure i replace when is necessary.

 

[Tizer]

Unless they are rotten and falling appart in your hand, they should never need replacing. If you do replace any media, never do it all at once, just one sponge or type at a time.

 

[the_lock_man]

+1 to Tizer.

Also, the carbon pad is basically only necessary to remove chemicals such as medication from your water. At any other time, it doesn't do a great deal. Keep one brand new spare for any time you need to remove medications, (and when you use it, remove it again after a couple of weeks) but in the meantime, replace it with more ceramic nodules.

If you do replace anything before it's falling apart, you're just chucking out perfectly good bacteria, and lining the pockets of the retailers/wholesalers/manufacturers.

 

[BigbruiserAl]

I have a U3 filter and the literature recommends replacing them as follows:
2 poly/carbon filter pads - replace 1 every 2 weeks(Need washing in tank water every week,replace ploy maybe 6/12months)
2 foam pads - replace 1 every 3-6 months(wash monthly in tank water or when flow reduces)
biomax nodules - replace every 6 months (almost never wash in tank water maybe 12months or if clogged)