cycling new(ish) tank

[bahari]

Hi all,

I recently discovered my fluval chi filter cube wasn't working. It was my second one and didn't want to replace it again, so I decided to get a different filter. Long story short, I'm using new filter media (the old filter media completely dried out. The shape is also very specific to the fluval chi). I'm still using old plants, gravel, and decor. The tank has been established for a year. My last fish recently died so nothing is living in it rn. How long should I expect this cycle to take? The tank is 5 gal.

Thank you!

 

[Aiken Drum]

No way of knowing how long it will take. Cycling a tank typically takes a couple of months.

You say the filter media had dried out, but didnt mention the condition of the plants, substrate and decor. Did that dry out? If not was there an ammonia source in the water to keep what beneficial bacteria living there fed and alive?