Help Filter Cartidge Questions

[MikeLani456]

Hello Everyone,

I currently have an Aqueon 10 quietflow filter for my 20 gallon community tank. When replacing the filter, if the box the aqueon filters came in said to change them every 4-6 weeks should I or can I go longer? If I can is there anything i can do to maximize the life of each filter cartridge (cleaning in with any product, rinsing in water etc)??

Thank you for taking time to read this

 

[Watsonja4]

Never change filters unless the old cartridge is about to fall apart. The only thing you need to do is swoosh the dirty cartridge around in tank water in a bucket (Not Tap Water) to remove loose debris every couple of weeks. When the old cartridge needs to be replaced put the new one in beside the old and leave for 1-2 weeks then discard old. This is done to keep from loosing the bacteria that keeps your tank cycled. Companies say to replace the cartridges every month just to sale more filters. Hope this helps.