Adding new filter start a new cycle??

[Andyskoi]

I have had my 4ft tank runing for around 6months with two internal filters. I have now purchased a new external filter and set it up on the tank. Will this make my tank cycle again or cause any problems to my fish or turtles? Thanks

 

[christine2012]

Leave the two filters on while you cycle the external filter. You shouldn't run into much of a cycle.
Or cram your media from the two into the external.

 

[Andyskoi]

Thanks for replying. I have left the two internal filters in aswell as i thought that would help. How long should it take to mature the new filter? The carbon and biomix was new but the filter sponges have been used an a marine set up but had not been used for a while

 

[spoonman]

I would leave the new one on the tank for a month before taking out the old ones.

 

[LyndaB]

the filter sponges have been used an a marine set up but had not been used for a while

I would not use these sponges in a freshwater tank. You can't say what kind of marine residue they may have on them. Just get new ones.

 

[Andyskoi]

I will have to order some new ones then. I wouldent of used them but they looked pretty new to be fair

 

[Andyskoi]

Should i not clean the filter out for a month then?

 

[christine2012]

Should i not clean the filter out for a month then?

I wouldn't clean it until its established. I would probably get new sponges though.