I was reading the other threads regarding this that said the charcoal really is not needed, and just the fuzz is.....

So I have been using it for 2 months as the tank was cycling.... if I want to stop what do I do just put in a new fuzz, pinned with the old fuzz both empty ? Or do I put something else in the fuzz ?

And will removing the charcoal at one time upset the balance of the tank or would it be fine?

Hi,

I'm sorry but I don't quite understand what media is in your filter.

Does your filter have fuzz and carbon? Can you just take out the carbon and leave the fuzz. (I love this word fuzz, haven't used it for years )

Replace the carbon with new fuzz only if you have existing fuzz that you won't remove for now.

Hope this makes sense.

Slugger

fuzz! sucha fun word! anyways, if your filter has the little pouches with the carbon inside, just empty taht out and stick some bio media in there! that way, when you DO change teh fuzz, the bio-media will always be there with your bio-filter.

smack, that is a great idea! How often would I have to change out the bio media?
any kind in specific you can recommend (from petsmart as it is where I shop) ... keep in mind I am on a tight budget

I keep 1 old fuzz I just clip on to the new fuzz when needed so it is always somewhat stable in bacteria.

I did some research and think I will try fluval biomax ceramic rings thanks for the help

Ok so I couldn't fit the little bio things in the fuzz baggie (which must be kept because it is the current buggie home ) so I just stuffed them in and around every area of the filter.........

this look ok?

Looks great! thats a really good idea!

ideally, you never have/should change your bio media, if you do, change like a quarter at a time, so the new stuff can get 'buggy'

anyways, i was thinking of the aquaclear bio media, you can buy replacements for failry cheap, and just pop them in, theyre small!

good luck, that looks good!

Thanks smack
well the package says every 6 months or so to change half....

the way I see it that fuzz is going to last a gazillion years now that the charcoal changes aren't needed I just have to give it a swish that plus those in there should be great.... while they are big they are super easy to swish..... I am thinkin 6 mnths change out half as the box says because the fuzz and remaining should sustain....

thoughts?



My water was murky as heck for 2 days, so I just did a 30% change and fishie looks MUCH happier hehehe

hmm...id be inclined to change the fuzz more frequently then the bio balls....i cant stand dirty fuzz...its like washing dishes in dirty water, i think.... its up to you though