How often should you change filter media?

How often should you change filter media?

The filter media in your aquarium filter needs to be cleaned and sometimes replaced periodically. In this article, we’ll discuss when to change filter media based on the purpose of the filter media itself.

You should change filter media when it can no longer be used for its particular function. Sponges must capture waste, dirt, and general detritus. Bio-media must retain its surface area for beneficial bacteria to grow on. Chemical media must continue to absorb dissolved particles in the water. Media should be changed when it can no longer function correctly.


Time Frame for media

The amount of time any given media takes to lose its capability to function has many factors. Including but not limited to Bio-load, feeding amounts, water changes/maintenance…etc

There is no given time frame for any one specific media because it is dependent on the aquarium specifics itself. With that being said we will discuss a very general time frame for each type of media.

Sponges

Sponge Filter Media

Mechanical filtration should be cleaned with every filter cleaning. Sponges can be squeezed and cleaned out of any and all detritus that was captured within itself. When cleaning sponges the water will turn a dark color from the release of dirt and detritus that was contained within the sponge. Once a sponge can no longer release the detritus captured it’s time for a replacement.

Course sponges can last a lot longer than a fine sponge. Fine sponges capture so much debris that it will be completely full and cannot be cleaned. Fine sponges should be replaced with every filter cleaning. In general your course and medium sponges can last between 3-6 months before needing replacement.

Bio-Media

never be replaced. Bio-media should be rinsed off, in tank 
water only. Chlorine from your tap water will kill the beneficial bacteria growing on your bio-media. If your mechanical filtration is functioning correctly your bio-media should not get clogged with dirt and debris. But you would still want to rinse your bio-media, in tank water, just to remove any small particles that may have gotten through your mechanical media. Bio-media can be used for years without needing to be replaced.

Chemical Media

Chemical media removes dissolved particles from your tank water with activated carbons, resins, and other adsorbents. Once this chemical media is “full” it can not absorb any more and will need to be replaced. In general most chemical media should be replaced monthly or with every filter cleaning.


Should I change filter media?

How often should you change filter media? Some filter media, like bio-media, does not need to be changed. Other media like sponges can be cleaned and re-used multiple times before needing to be changed, usually in about 3-6 months. Chemical filtration definitely should be changed every 1-2 months of continuous use.

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