QT tank

Question
Hi TJ,
I went out and bought a 10gal kit for my QT.  It came with a generic filter (carbon filter that must be replaced every 2-4 weeks) so here is my problem.  I added 5lbs of live sand and I have tossed in some pellets and flakes once a week for 4 weeks now.  Seeing as though my filter needs to be replaced and won't be able to harbor any beneficial bacteria, will the sand be ok?  I don't plan on housing any fish in here unless they need to be removed from my main tank.  How can I keep this small tank up and running, cost efficiently?  I want it for back up and if and when I decide to purchase a new fish I plan on using this tank for three weeks or so for quarantine purposes.  Or do you suggest emptying it and leaving it as a hospital tank.  Ugh, I don't know, please advise.  Thank you so much.

Answer
Hey Luke

Your sand is okay without anything. Once you get a new filter, transfer over the media from the broken filter. To keep the good stuff in the filter living, you need ammonia. if you can, get some pure ammonia from a hardware store (no surfactants in it. shake it, if it foams, dont use it). add a few drips of ammonia every few days to the tank and the bacteria will stay living. if you know youre going to grab a new fish, 3 days before dont add any ammonia so that the fish is alright. this way, your tank will stay cycled between quarantines efficiently

any follow ups feel free to ask!