Overhead sump filter - biological filter maintenance

HI all,

I have an overhead sump filter with bio rings, sponge, filter floss and bio balls. I have heard that it is ideal not to replace biological filter media until it is physically falling apart, is this correct? Also, how often is it necessary to replace the filter floss? Until it is falling apart as well?

At the moment I clean the biological media in reserved tank water from when I do a water change, I do this about once a month or should I be doing it more often?

Thanks in advance

 

I don't see the need to replace bio media unless it's crumbling, heck I only clean it maybe 2-3 times a year. Filter floss gets really grimy and kinda clogs up so I replace it more regularly.

 

I don't see the need to replace bio media unless it's crumbling, heck I only clean it maybe 2-3 times a year. Filter floss gets really grimy and kinda clogs up so I replace it more regularly.

Thanks for your reply! I thought that could be the case.

With the filter floss do you suggest just keeping an eye on it and when it gets gross, replacing it? Maybe every few months or so?

 

Thanks for your reply! I thought that could be the case.

With the filter floss do you suggest just keeping an eye on it and when it gets gross, replacing it? Maybe every few months or so?

Yeah, I only replace it when it gets nasty and stinky and kinda breaks apart easily. If my water flow is still good I'm never in a big rush to clean my filter. Also you don't want to over clean it, it holds the majority of the beneficial bacteria.

 

I clean my floss every month or so, and then ever 6 months completely toss it as it begins to trap a lot of waste abd 'decompress'. I like reusing my floss simply to avoid spending more than I have to, and ensure that I'm not wasting products unnecessarily that a good clean can't fix.

 

I clean my floss every month or so, and then ever 6 months completely toss it as it begins to trap a lot of waste abd 'decompress'. I like reusing my floss simply to avoid spending more than I have to, and ensure that I'm not wasting products unnecessarily that a good clean can't fix.

Ok cool! I clean it every month too but looks like I will be needing to change it soon so will get some replacement floss in the meantime.

Thanks for your help