I just started cycling my 29 gal. I assume I had to somewhat "re-start" due to switching out my substrate (first substrate we determined contained something driving the pH through the roof, to the low to mid 8's).
The pH has stabilized at a more reasonable level, mid/upper 7's, but still higher than I'd prefer.
Also our filter cartridge is dark brown, I think because of dust that wasn't properly washed off the original substrate. I'm also thinking it might have some lingering particles causing the pH to still be on the high side. Either way, it won't "wash" if I swish it around in tank water (did a PWC yesterday) so I'm thinking I should change it.
The Aqueon has a blue plastic thing that holds the carbon cartridge that they call a "biological filter" - which leads me to believe they at least claim the bacteria colonize it moreso than the floss or carbon in the cartridge.
If I switch out the dirty carbon filter will it affect cycling significantly? Or maybe put the new one in and stick the old one behind it for a while? I'm of the mindset that it's better to do it now than later.
The pH has stabilized at a more reasonable level, mid/upper 7's, but still higher than I'd prefer.
Also our filter cartridge is dark brown, I think because of dust that wasn't properly washed off the original substrate. I'm also thinking it might have some lingering particles causing the pH to still be on the high side. Either way, it won't "wash" if I swish it around in tank water (did a PWC yesterday) so I'm thinking I should change it.
The Aqueon has a blue plastic thing that holds the carbon cartridge that they call a "biological filter" - which leads me to believe they at least claim the bacteria colonize it moreso than the floss or carbon in the cartridge.
If I switch out the dirty carbon filter will it affect cycling significantly? Or maybe put the new one in and stick the old one behind it for a while? I'm of the mindset that it's better to do it now than later.