Purigen Users I Have A Question

[Rainbowdan]

Hey everyone, I'm new to the forum and I have a question regarding Purigen.
 
I have been using Purigen in my 30 & 55 gal tanks for about 1 1/2 years. I purchased several bottles at a steep discount when my favorite Fish store closed up. I have never recharged any Purigen as putting something into my tanks that has been bleached is a little scary. I have several question and hope someone can give me a correct answer on them.
 
1. Seeing as I had several containers of Purigen I would let the water evaporate out of the container and I now have dry & dirty purigen. Have I already failed in the regen process letting it dry?
 
2. Is there any way to test the purigen prior to putting it back into my filters?
 
3. Once recharged, what is the duration of the purigen. New it lasts somewhere between 4 and 6 months. will the purigen be as effective?
 
I have about $300.00 worth of Rainbow fish and I don't want my tanks to crash.
 
Thanks,
 
Rainbowdan    

 

[Zante]

1. I don't know for sure, but I doubt it. I think that it would simply be more difficult to clean and the first regeneration won't completely clear it.
2. Yes, you can buy a chlorine test. I wouldn't worry too much though, I have used regenerated purigen on my discus tank and they have bred in the community with tetras, corys and BN plecs. If you do things properly and follow the instructions you'll be fine
3. AFAIK it will be the same.

 

[Rainbowdan]

Thanks Zante,
 
I've cleaned 1/2 of my purigen so far and it seems fine with no bleach odor. I haven't found a test kit yet stopping today at a bigger store.
 
Thanks again!