Filter change

[esheesle]

Trying to maintain a good bacteria balance in my tank(when I had a 45 gallon I never had issues but with the smaller 10 that I have now I want to be safer about everything). I have a whisper filter which has the sleeve with charcoal and the bio foam. I know to never clean the bio foam in anything but the tank water. Is it fine to completely replace the sleeve and charcoal once a month though?

Thanks

[Lady Hobbs]

I would rinse them off as well in tank water too. I wouldn't replace anything with bacteria on it until that tank has plenty of time to finish cycling.

[jeffs99dime]

also, if you have more than one filter clean on one at a time. this way you'll keep more good bacteria in the system.

[kimmers318]

Until filter media is worn out, don't replace it, just rinse it in tank water. If it is necessary to replace try to do so on a non-tank change day allowing you to disturb the bacteria as little as possible.

[Fishguy2727]

I try and allow at least three days between water change/gravel vacuum and filter cleaning.

[CJ1]

Replace your charcoal every 4-6 weeks.

[Fishguy2727]

Monthly is generally the most the carbon can go without being changed and still be doing anything. And that is with the highest quality carbons available. In general I have completely stopped using carbon. Any problems that would arise by not using carbon are taken care of with my water change schedule (~75% weekly on all my tanks).