Removing The Carbon Insert..

[netcode]

I am removing the carbon insert from my filter since they are apparently quite useless. Should I replace it with more foam?

any feedback is great thanks

 

[Tempestuousfury]

You could probably get filter floss or fiber. I'm not sure what the consensus is on pillow stuffing material (as to whether it is safe for use in an aquarium), but it would be cheaper.

 

[netcode]

pillow stuffing material

huh?
where did this come from?

 

[voo]

pillow stuffing material

huh?
where did this come from?

Tempestuousfury was telling you to replace with filter floss, and pillow stuffing is very similar, if you wanted a cheaper alternative to filter floss.

 

[Teelie]

I just use filter floss. An average bag of the stuff is a few bucks and can last you well over a year or more depending on the size/number of filters and how often you replace it. Personally I just use the same floss and clean it every month or two in used tank or filtered water.

 

[netcode]

I have never used floss before.. is it something you have to put into a bag? how thick is it..etc?


edit:

I found this http/www.petsandponds.com/securestore/c1...16241673.2.html

does something like this have to be placed in a bag or can u just cut and insert

 

[Teelie]

That's identical to what I use. I just tear off a chunk and stick it in the filter cartridge's place. If you have a problem with it getting too stringy or trying to flow out of the media basket, then you can use cheap plastic mesh to hold it in place.

 

[blackguppy]

I'd like to know what kind of filter you're using first, but here goes anyway, lol. IF it's anything other than a cannister filter, I'd say go with more foam. The problem with filter floss ( I remember when it was glass wool, fiberglass) is that when you replace it, you're throwing away all of the beneficial bacteria that have colonized on it. With a sponge replacement for your carbon, you can simply rinse the foam out in syphoned off water change water, put it right back in, and not lose any of the beneficial bacterialogical action. If you're using a cannister filter, that already has many layers of biological action already, then you can use the floss as a water "polishing" agent.

 

[timmystood]

I would replace it with Filter Floss too, it makes your water pretty much crystal clear