nacaairfoil

Recently I bought a auto_tech filter. Inside this filter, there are two filter medias. one is called biology media, the other is called chemical and mechanical media. The instruction said i need replace the chemical media monthly. I saw in this forum, somebody said the media should not be changed to keep the bacteria. I donot whether i can chage the chemical media(keep the biology) or not. Thanks.

susitna-flower

The problem with "chemical media", is that it absorbs, then releases the chemicals that IT is suppose to take out of your water....when it gets "worn out" - So my recommendation is to replace that "chemical media" with more biological or mechanical media. Both of these just require periodic rinsing with discarded tank water. That will add to the bacteria needed to accomplish the nitrogen cycle, they will help filter out particles, and your fish will be fine.

If you notice many of these "chemical medias" are suppose to absorb things like ammonia, which are dealt with by the bacteria in the process of the nitrogen cycle. Carbon is the only exception to this that I would suggest, and that is to add carbon to your filter media IF you have used medications. AFTER the full course of medication, put carbon in the filter for 24 hours to remove medications, then remove and discard the carbon.

nacaairfoil

Thanks. That helps a lot