changing filter media

[Coyne]

About how long should I have a replacement filter pad sitting in the back of my HOB filter (along side the existing pad) before its built up enough BB to replace the original?

Also, for medicating purposes, I want to replace the carbon/mesh filter pad in my QT tank's Aqueon Quietflow 10, but there isnt a lot of space back there. Any suggestions? Is the fabric store pillow stuffing still an option even though theres pretty much only space for a pre-cut pad? I currently have 4-6 bio-rings in what little space there is, but Im not convinced thats enough to do anything so taking them out isnt unreasonable.

 

[germanyt]

I would imagine just a few days would be sufficient. Bacteria multiply pretty rapidly.

 

[Fishanatic]

I would imagine just a few days would be sufficient. Bacteria multiply pretty rapidly.

I would leave it at least a week. Although it will multiply, a few days will not give it all the time too have the necessary ammount and maintain the bio-load.

 

[germanyt]

I would leave it at least a week. Although it will multiply, a few days will not give it all the time too have the necessary ammount and maintain the bio-load.

Yeah you certainly couldn't hurt by going longer. I don't have that issue since I have 3 filters between 2 HOBs. I just swap one at a time each month. So on change day I have a 2 month, 1 month, and brand new filter in the tank.