What If...?

[Marto666]

Just wondering, what would happen if a filter decided to pack up? How long would you have to replace and how would you go about cycling it again?

Thanks

 

[This Old Spouse]

If you get a similar filter and use the media from the old filter and put it in the new one, you won't have to cycle at all.

 

[Marto666]

Thanks

That’s good to know. How long in terms of time would one have to purchase a new filter? Basically, how long will the fish live for without a running filter?

 

[coldcazzie]

Replace within 24 hours, 48 absolute max, perform large water changes in the interim, put all old media in new filter and test water for ammonia & nitrite every 12 hours in case you get a mini cycle. the longer you leave the bacteria without food and oxygen the more of them will die, so definitely replace ASAP, but there is a grace period of a few hours where you're ok (like if you have a power cut, forget to turn back on after cleaning etc)

how long depends on stocking level, but you deal with it by doing large water changes like a fish in cycle.

 

[Marto666]

Thanks cazzie

Might sound silly but I like to be prepared incase something like that did happen. I’m surprised how little time one has to get a replacement, I don’t think anyone stocks the filter I have locally so will be very concerned if this does happen.

Is it known for filters to just pack up at all? All does it not really happen?

 

[Tizer]

It happens yes, how often nobody could really tell you. Always pays to have a spare around. i keep the 305 filter that came with my tank in the garage in case i need spares for the new one. if the one in my 90litre packed up, i can get one for £20 locally pretty quick.

 

[moochy13]

theres not many moving parts in a filter, and not many seperate components either. for my eheim external, a couple of ceramic shafts and a spare motor/lid i think would get me sorted quickly. both quick fixes.