How long to break in a new filter???

[BobK]

Okay, I just got a new Penguin 125 off e-Bay 7 days ago for an awesome price of under $20 including shipping!!!! I've had it running side by side with my Aqua-Tech 5 on my established 10 gallon tank with 3 platies (breeding tank). I want to move the Aqua-Tech to another tank. My question is how long will it take to seed the bio-wheel in the Penguin? I think a week is good enough since it is an established tank and there should be plenty of back-up bacteria in the gravel but I'd love to get some opinions. Thanks guys!

 

[sylvia]

Provided there's always ammonia to feed the beneficial bacteria (or fish), a week should do it. Make sure you add fish slowly though.

 

[BobK]

Hi Sylvia. The fish were already in the tank before I added the new filter so there has been no interuption to the ammonia supply. Thanks for your help. I'll take out the AquaTech tomorrow and keep an eye on the ammonia and nitrites just in case they decide to spike (I doubt it but better safe than sorry).