Upgrading Internal Filter

[boeingtech]

Hi all, am looking for some advice with regards to upgrading my internal filter (currently a juwel standard in a 250 lt. tank) to a fluval 305. My question is how best do i do the swap? i am aware that i have to allow the new filter time to start cycling but have also read that this in turn will reduce the performance of my currentfilter. obviously my main concern is the welfare of the fish and i want to do this without upsetting the tank too much. Grateful for any advice.... thanks..

 

[rabbut]

If you are keeping the old filter, fine, leave it be. The two filters will share the load.

If you are removing the old filter, simply set it up will all it's media, with the exception of one of the baskets. This spare basket should be used to move all your old filters media into. Then start running the new filter with the old filters media in it. This effectlvely instantly cycles the new filter, saving you from having to run the two side-by-side for a while

HTH
Rabbut

 

[Colin_T]

just a bit more info from rabbut's statement. If you have both filters running for a month or so, the new filter will develop some bacteria and the old filter will lose some. Then after that time you can turn off the old filter and the new filter will take over completely.

 

[rabbut]

the new filter will develop some bacteria and the old filter will lose some. Then after that time you can turn off the old filter and the new filter will take over completely.

If you intend to switch over completely, running the two side by side for a while IMO is a complete waste of time, money and energy. Simply moving the existing filters media into the new one will cycle the new filter instantly, and you can remove the old filter the day you fit the new one.

No disrespect to Colin-T, his method will work, it's just quicker to transfer and get rid of the old filter with the media swap, which would be my preferance. Colin may well prefur taking things slowly, and more traditionaly. However, doing things colin's way IME makes it more likely for a mini-cycle to occur, and these can be as deadly as a full on fish-in cycle, because you are likely fully stocked ATM. Moving all the bacteria into one filter reduces the risk of the mini-cycle occuring.

Al the best
Rabbut