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Power Filter Cartridge

1172 Views 5 Replies 3 Participants Last post by  MrDavid, 
M
This may be a dumb question, but is a cartridge necessary when using a power filter that hangs over the back of the aquarium?

I have 2 power filters running my 75 gal. I have not replaced the cartridges in 6 months, but I do weekly water changes. My 11 cichlids are growing and healthy. I'm thinking about removing the cartridges and just using the power filter for the purpose of water aeration.

I would appreciate any advice on this. Again, I apologize if this is a dumb question.
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D
Yes you need some kind of media in your filter to trap the debris from your aquarium.
It would be helpful to know the filter brand & model number to fine tune any answers I may give.
Do you rinse the cartridge periodically to clean it?
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D
I'm not familiar with this model but found a link to the cartridge replacement here. Just scroll down the page, it is under the Marineland brand. http://www.aquariacentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=141720&highlight=regent+30/60.

I would recommend replacing the cartridge. I don't know if there is carbon in the cartridge but usually there is. Carbon loses its effectiveness after a few weeks. Also, since you have 2 filters, only replace the cartridge in one filter then next month, replace the other. They can be rinsed out but only use fish tank water to clean them. Never use tap water. Just put some water in a bucket when you do your water change then swish the cartridge around to get the gunk out.

I think your water quality will be better if you follow what I recommended above. Just don't change both cartridges in the same month. Your good bacteria lives in the filter as well as in the gravel & other decor you have in your tank.

BTW, what kind of cichlids do you have? Also, how big are they now? And how much water do you change every week?
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