When and why to replace mechanical filter media?

Why and when to replace mechanical filter media?

Every filter media has its own filtration capacity beyond that it cannot efficiently filter water. Water flows through the filtration media and if its pores are clogged by debris, then water will not be efficiently filtered. Different filtration media are available & they have different uses. Such as wiping out odour or purifying water, activated carbon is the best media.

Fine sponge VS Coarse sponge

What is the lifespan of mechanical filtration media:

Mechanical filter media traps solid particles from the water, & allow clean water to flow through the media. Fish & other aquarium inhabitants produce poop, uneaten food & other debris that are harmful for fish because they release toxic chemicals if not removed quickly. Therefore, aquarists keep filters in their aquarium for purifying water.

Mechanical filter media is like a tea filter that allows tea to pass through the filter but traps tealeaves that are unwanted substances in the tea. Mechanical filter media consists of coarse & fine sponges or foams. Fine sponge can trap very small particles thus they efficiently clean water. Fine sponge clogs quickly when large debris stick in it. Fine sponge tends to clog faster than coarse sponge, & have a shorter lifespan; therefore, it needs frequent replacement. If pores of the fine foam are completely blocked, then it is recommended to replace it. Foam replacement depends on how regularly you clean it. Coarse foam works for longer period as compared to fine foam. Cleaning coarse foam is easy as it releases gunk quickly when rinsed with water as compared to fine foam.

Sponges have larger pores than foams. Fine sponge has smaller pores than coarse sponge. Fine sponge is not very efficient in cleaning water as compared to fine foam because the former has larger cell size than the latter. However, fine sponge can work for longer duration compared to fine foam. Coarse sponge can work for a lifetime & does not need replacement. However, if poorly maintained, then the cells of your coarse sponge would be blocked, & would need replacement.

Filter media can work for ten to fifteen years. The lifespan of your filter media may be different based on your water conditions & maintenance of filter, as frequent maintenance can extend the lifespan of your filtration media.

Cleaning the foam regularly will extend its life. If pores are completely blocked then your foam needs replacement. As foam spends time in water, it becomes very hard to clean thoroughly & may begin to wear & break down. It is recommended to replace fine foam every four to six weeks. Medium & Coarse foam needs replacement when their cells start to become larger, which is an indication of falling apart.

Sponge mechanical filtration media will work for a long time if regularly maintained.