Changing filter media in HOB filter?

[SeeDemTails]

I totally changed out my media in my Skilter 250 last night. I had been leary to do it before, as I didnt want to kill good bacteria, but when I looked at the pad, it had brown slimy areas...so I chucked it.

I put in a new pad, and checked my NO3, which I have been battleing with for a while......not much of a change, but do you think this will help?

I had not changed the pad in about 3 months, but I rinse it out from time to time with old PWC water. How ofter should you change the pad?...I have about 15 lbs of LR in the tank, and a 2" base of LS.......do you think this provides good enough nitrification?

I would like to change the pad more often........perhaps totally remove it?.....would replacing it totally with LR rubble be a better idea?

[roka64]

I am in the process of removing the sponges and media from my canister. I think that is where my algae is coming from. I did notice my phosphates dropped from 1 to .05 in about 5 hours. I forget, what size tank do you have...10G? If so, you can probably remove the media, and replace w/LR rubble. Others are welcome to chime in....

[SeeDemTails]

If I could it would be great....I think it would work much better.

I would like to leave a little space to add carbon if I need too.

The tank is a 10 gal.

[roka64]

I'm working on a journal w/pics/numbers. Once I am done, I'll post the whole thing.

[Scoot]

I'm gradually going to start eliminate my HOB filter. Going to start with 1 bio wheel, then the other, then the filter media, then the whole thing.

The way its shaped, it hold crud, food, etc., in its bottom, and every time I turn the filter on/off, or change the media, it all busts loose and comes flying out into the tank.

I vacuum it once in awhile, but its really hard to vacuum...

[roka64]

I'm gradually going to start eliminate my HOB filter. Going to start with 1 bio wheel, then the other, then the filter media, then the whole thing.

I was advised by some on this site, to remove and test after about 5 hours. Give it about 4-5 days, before you remove the other one, feed lightly and test.....

[Squado]

When I removed my bio wheel I did not see much of a change. THen again I only had it out for two days and when there was no change I just put it back in and once again no change. I think tomorrow im just gonna take it out and see if my nitrates go down at all. Ill let you guys know if the numbers go down when I remove it........