Tips for Maintenance of Aquarium Filter Media

Tips for Maintenance of your aquarium filtration media: How to preserve filter efficiency:

Maintenance of your aquarium filter needs a balance b/w cleaning & preserving the good bacteria that is responsible for biological filtration. Regular maintenance of your aquarium filter will keep the fish tank inhabitants happy & healthy by cleaning all the organic waste that would otherwise rot and release toxic chemicals. To help your aquarium filter operate correctly, it is important to follow the following tips:

When to clean & replace aquarium filter media?

Regular checking of your filter: 

Examine your aquarium filter once a month to make sure it works correctly & not clogged with detritus. Inspect the flow rate & make adjustments if required. A reduced flow rate indicates that your filter is clogged & needs maintenance.

 

Mechanical Filter Media:

Mechanical filtration media such as sponge filters need to be maintained every few weeks or at least once a month. Take out the sponge filter and gently clean the sponge with aquarium water to wipe out detritus & save good bacteria. If you use tap water for cleaning sponge, then it will remove all the good bacteria collected by your sponge & your aquarium may require recycling. Proper maintenance will increase the lifespan of your sponge filter. However, it is recommended to change your sponge every 3 to 6 months.

 

Chemical Filter Media:

Change the chemical filtration media like activated carbon, every month or after 2 months. If you use your chemical filtration media for an extended period, it will leach out the toxins it has collected back into the water. Proper maintenance of chemical filter media is necessary.

 

Biological Filter Media:

Do not replace all of your bio media at the same time, as they collect useful bacteria for decomposition of organic waste. Gently wash bio media with clean water when required to save the good bacteria.

 

Clean In-Tank Power Filters:

In-tank power filters need cleaning similar to HOB filters. Wash them after every few weeks or at least once a month. If not properly maintained, the efficiency of these filters will be reduced.

 

By following the above tops & maintaining your aquarium filters regularly, you can provide a healthy & stable home for your aquarium fish.