Time to replace sponge filter?

I have had this small sponge filter running as a supplemental filter in my 20g for about 10 months (I also use it for my qt for a quick cycle). My main filter is a penguin 150 hob.

As you can see, it is fairly nasty (in a good way)...the sponge was bright green and the matrix I put in the small part at the bottom is barely visible. Think I should replace it?

 

I have had this small sponge filter running as a supplemental filter in my 20g for about 10 months (I also use it for my qt for a quick cycle). My main filter is a penguin 150 hob.

As you can see, it is fairly nasty (in a good way)...the sponge was bright green and the matrix I put in the small part at the bottom is barely visible. Think I should replace it?

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As you said, it is fairly nasty in a good way.

I would not replace it until it’s falling apart.

 

As you said, it is fairly nasty in a ay.

I would not replace it until it’s falling apart.

I agree, but I would also squeeze it out because if there is a ton of stuff on it, it won't work as well mechanical filter-wise.

 

I agree with both. Dont replace it until its falling apart and it looks like it needs to be squeezed out "cleaned" in old tank water. Looks pretty clogged.

 

Cool, thanks. I guess I didn't realize you were supposed to squeeze the sponges in old tank water, I thought just swish them around. Thought the squeezing would clear out the bacteria.

 

I agree, but I would also squeeze it out because if there is a ton of stuff on it, it won't work as well mechanical filter-wise.

I agree with both. Dont replace it until its falling apart and it looks like it needs to be squeezed out "cleaned" in old tank water. Looks pretty clogged.

But he didn’t ask if he should squeeze it.

 

Cool, thanks. I guess I didn't realize you were supposed to squeeze the sponges in old tank water, I thought just swish them around. Thought the squeezing would clear out the bacteria.

Nope the bacteria will stay and the poop will go.

 

Since it has been running for 10 months and has never been cleaned I suspect it is going to be clogged up really bad. Don't be afraid to get rough with it when cleaning it. You are not going to remove all the bacteria from it. I suspect it will work much better once it is cleaned.