Need Advice On My Filter System And General Qson It

[stacey3272]

Ok I was reading on the boards and came across this info



3. Some filter companies recommend you change the filter media every month (Well they would say that, wouldn't they??? ). Not only is this an expensive waste of time quite often (filter sponges usually just need a rinse in some old tank water), you could be removing the beneficial bacteria. If you want to replace a filter insert, leave the sponge or floss in the tank for a week or so beforehand.

Now I attached pics of my filters I change . Is the blue insert that they say change every 3 to 4 week the sponge they are talking about in the above info? I have two part the black that I was told or read not to rince out . So my Q is how often do I change the blue insert . Do I just rince itout in old tank water to save money and is that where bacteria is living. ??
Any info would help . This is the one area I am not getting out of this new fish hobby...

Thank you

 

[OldMan47]

Forget about some manufacturers, they all recommend replacement quite frequently. Do not replace that thing. It is the only part of a typical filter that actually gets cycled. I use replacement cartridges that look like this.

It makes it easier to manage the replacement process since the new filter can be opened up and the old filter cover placed inside to preserve my cycle. A routine cleaning does not get me to replace the filter cover but when it wears out I simply must. Until that time, I just rinse out the old cover in my water change old water before I dump that water.

 

[The Taffy Apple]

That is correct Stacey, leave those blue ones (the bacteria are living on there in their millions) and rinse it out in old tank water everytime you feel you need to open your external filter. I only open mine once a month for general maintenance or if my flow goes down for any reason.
If you ever take them out and they fall apart in your hands (which may not be for many,many months) then you have to be more careful when changing them over, but that could be ages away.

Terry.

 

[stacey3272]

I understand . I am so mad I have changed them a fe days ago before I posted this. I am praying this did not mess with my tank and having my new fish in there GRRRR I thought it was the other black insert thing that had the bacteria in it.... I ope the fish gods are with me and there was enough bacteria in my tank gravel and stuff to keep everyone Alive. My water test have been good this week. Thanks everyone.