Canister maintenance

[Maridia]

I have a 306 fluval running in a 29g freshwater fully stocked aquarium. My question is how often should I open it up and clean it? Thanks.

 

[Jmunroe]

2-3 times a year if you don't have fine polishing pads inside that will plug it. I have an FX5 on my oscar tank and when I do take it apart it's surprisingly clean. I monitor my water parameters religiously and have no problems.

 

[Maridia]

Nice! I'll also be checking my params.

 

[joby wan]

I have the 206 running a saltwater reef system. I have over 20 lbs of live rock to help replace biomax ceramics. The polishing pad gets clogged monthly is the only thing I really noticed.