Filter 1 or filter 2 or both?

So I upgraded my 20 gallon tank from a 10 gallon tank. Old tank had whisper 20I filter new tank has whisper 20 filter. I am currently running them together bc I thought the one that came w new tank wouldn't be enough and also instant cycle if I run both side by side. But main issue is do I still need to keep both running? Only bc now I've got two filters and I wish I only had one that did the job ? Also the water smells and I'm wondering if it's bc of the old filter pad (yes I rinsed it in old water) and I do weekly water changes, scoop out poop w turkey baster... use prime. Should I just shush up and leave it as is?

New filter:

this is the new filter I have

Old filter:

 

The carbon inside the filter cartridges does stop absorbing stuff after about a month or so so it does need to be replaced for that reason. What do you have living in the tank? Any live plants? What kind of substrate? If it turns out that you do need carbon then you may want to consider leaving both filters running and changing the carbon cartridges on alternating months.

 

I like having 2 filters in my main tank for 2 reasons. One to have extra filtration ( more is better than less in my opinion ) and also to keep extra media pads seeding ( for use in my QT tank when needed )

Also when one pad is thrown away ( after being used for a long time ) its nice to know that you won't ruin your cycle.

I like using carbon in my tanks just for the reason of the smells and to keep the water crystal clear. I buy the cut-to-fit media pads so its pretty economical to use. Lots of people don't use it - its a matter of personal preference....

 

Description of current filters I own:

New: Appropriate for every size aquarium, they provide the three types of filtration that your aquarium needs: Biological, Mechanical, and Chemical. The unique feature of this power filter is its open Bio-Bag filter cartridge. This allows you to use the included Ultra-Activated carbon or choose additional media that best suits your aquarium's needs. Quiet and dependable filter incorporates superior 3-way filtration. Easy-to-use, Bio-Bag fiber quickly traps particulate matter, Ultra-Activated carbon removes dissolved contaminants, and Bio-Foam supplies plenty of surface area for optimal biological filtration.

Old:Tetra Whisper Internal Power Filter with BioScrubber for Aquariums is a submersible filter that provides quiet, convenient, 3-stage filtration. The dual-sided Bio-Bag mesh catches debris and fish waste while the activated carbon absorbs odors and discoloration. Biological filtration is provided by the bio-scrubber, featuring an anti-clog design for complete biological filtration with the convenience of less maintenance. And because the bio-scrubber has a solid back, water is forced to flow evenly over the bacteria-rich bristles for unparalleled performance. Compatible with Tetra Bio-Bags for easy, reliable

So it seems both filters use the 3-way filtration system. Now I'm thinking of doing what Junne said and replacing the fluffy white carbon(?) part but would that hurt my cycle? Store guy said don't put 2 medias in one filter at a time ? Not that I take their advice ....

 

Description of current filters I own:

New: Appropriate for every size aquarium, they provide the three types of filtration that your aquarium needs: Biological, Mechanical, and Chemical. The unique feature of this power filter is its open Bio-Bag filter cartridge. This allows you to use the included Ultra-Activated carbon or choose additional media that best suits your aquarium's needs. Quiet and dependable filter incorporates superior 3-way filtration. Easy-to-use, Bio-Bag fiber quickly traps particulate matter, Ultra-Activated carbon removes dissolved contaminants, and Bio-Foam supplies plenty of surface area for optimal biological filtration.

Old:Tetra Whisper Internal Power Filter with BioScrubber for Aquariums is a submersible filter that provides quiet, convenient, 3-stage filtration. The dual-sided Bio-Bag mesh catches debris and fish waste while the activated carbon absorbs odors and discoloration. Biological filtration is provided by the bio-scrubber, featuring an anti-clog design for complete biological filtration with the convenience of less maintenance. And because the bio-scrubber has a solid back, water is forced to flow evenly over the bacteria-rich bristles for unparalleled performance. Compatible with Tetra Bio-Bags for easy, reliable

So it seems both filters use the 3-way filtration system. Now I'm thinking of doing what Junne said and replacing the fluffy white carbon(?) part but would that hurt my cycle? Store guy said don't put 2 medias in one filter at a time ? Not that I take their advice ....

The fluffy white stuff material ( I am assuming you mean the filter material ) is where you BB live. It does not need to be replaced until its falling apart but rinsed in your used tank water after a water change. Your carbon inside will not be of any use after a month but it will not hurt it. Personally, I like the bonded filter material better ( does not fall apart as easily ) and 1 pad I can use for 6-8 months ( you cut to fit your filter ) or more! You can find different brands such as Marineland and DEEP BLUE on Amazon or your lfs.

Here's a link to the Deep Blue pads I use - they also have Carbon, ammonia pads, etc



What I would do is use the old pad you have in there and then put in a new one ( to seed it ) for a month or so before removing the old one. That way you don't lose your cycle.

 

Okay just purchased the deep blue filter pads from link, I shall insert it into one of my filters for a month. Then take out the old white fluffy pad? (Which I'm assuming is called carbon)

That sounds very reasonable!

Obridgada, toda, thank you, gracias

 

I have 2 filters in my 29 gallon, both with carbon.
I alternate filter cleanings to keep the bio action.

I'm happy with this arrangement.

 

Then take out the old white fluffy pad? (Which I'm assuming is called carbon)

Carbon is black granules, not the white filter media

 

Carbon is black granules, not the white filter media

I think she is referring to the cover that the carbon is inside of. Typically with the filters she has, the loose carbon is inside a netting type of material on a cartridge.

 

Hey June, do you think I should add a sponge and Purigen to my filter?

 

Hey June, do you think I should add a sponge and Purigen to my filter?

If you have room, yes. I have not used Purigen so I can't offer you any advice there..... Maybe someone else can chime in?

 

Okay thanks girl