Filter Maintenance

Question
Hallo Karen.

I just want to findout something with filter media maintenance. I have a aquaclear 200 hang on filter. The foam sponge for the filter does it also need to be replaced every 3 to 4 months or can you just keep on using it until it really falling apart. Someone told me that you just need to clean it in aquarium water one every other week then you would be able to use it for years. What is your info on filter maintenance like external hangongs and internal power filter which also have a sponge. Do you just clean it in aquarium water or what do you do with your filter maintenance?

Thanks for your help I appreciate it a lot.

Regards.
Hannes Viviers.


Answer
Dear Hannes,
This all depends basically on how dirty your foam sponge actually gets. I tend to keep using the sponges on my filters, rising them in water from the tank when they become clogged and only replacing them when it falls apart or becomes too clogged inside it. Always try to not completely replace all the sponge or filter media as this could wipe out a large portion of your bacterial colony. I have found that when replacing the sponge, to cut a portion of the old sponge and put it in with the new sponge to help keep some bacteria going in it.

Filter maintenance is very important, and rinsing sponges regularly helps keep nitrate levels and other pollutants from building up too rapidly.

I really hope this helps!
Best wishes as always,
Karen~