My Filter Is Annoying Me!

[cityofdaggers]

Hi Everyone

I have a 25 gallon tall tank that I set up 2 or 3 years ago. My filter is a Penguin 200. Currently, I have one filter cartridge and a little bag of ceramic media (that has been in there for at least a year) in the filter. I'm terrified to try and change or clean the filter cartridge though, because every time I do, my tank clouds up for at least a week. Is there a 'proper' way to be changing filter cartridges? Should I be using different materials in the filter? I've considered using 2 filter cartridges (also, do I really need the charcoal?) and just cleaning them on a rotating basis. Any advice? Thanks

 

[FreedomFighter]

Hi Everyone

I have a 25 gallon tall tank that I set up 2 or 3 years ago. My filter is a Penguin 200. Currently, I have one filter cartridge and a little bag of ceramic media (that has been in there for at least a year) in the filter. I'm terrified to try and change or clean the filter cartridge though, because every time I do, my tank clouds up for at least a week. Is there a 'proper' way to be changing filter cartridges? Should I be using different materials in the filter? I've considered using 2 filter cartridges (also, do I really need the charcoal?) and just cleaning them on a rotating basis. Any advice? Thanks

I apologise if this appears a stupid question. But sometimes the basics need to be asked.

Do you clean your filter media in tap water?

When you replace your filter media, do you change it all, or just some of it?

 

[cityofdaggers]

It's alright!
I don't use tap water, just tank water
And the only thing I ever replace is the filter cartridge about once a month, but there's still the ceramic media and bio-wheel. Those don't seem to be enough to make up for the loss of bacteria from replacing the cartridge though.

 

[FreedomFighter]

It's alright!
I don't use tap water, just tank water
And the only thing I ever replace is the filter cartridge about once a month, but there's still the ceramic media and bio-wheel. Those don't seem to be enough to make up for the loss of bacteria from replacing the cartridge though.

Ah I see. so it could be ammonia/nitrate buildups after filter media replacements being the trouble then (the obvious answer)

Please excuse me for a few minutes, going to do some research on your filter, see if I can think of anything.

Dr. Fosters and Smith makes Bio3 Filters cartridges that will fit in this filter. They come with a frame and sponge that you keep in it, you just change the "carbon bags" that are quilted to eliminate the "tea bag" effect.

http/www.fosterandsmithaquatics.com/product/prod_display.cfm?c=3578+4136+13370&pcatid=13370

I think this could solve your problem. You could cut the filter sponge in two, and then replace half the media on a rotation basis. Therefore your tank will always have the extra biological filtration.

Whaddya reckon?

==double edit==

Instead of cutting it in half, you could just as easily remove the filterfloss/carbon, as it's seemingly optional unless your medicating, and put a second sponge in. Then replace one at a time.

 

[cityofdaggers]

This looks great.. might just solve my problem! I've never been able to find one like this that would fit my filter. Thanks a bunch

 

[FreedomFighter]

Glad to be of help. Hope it works for you