How long can a filter last without cleaning?

[salman]

I found my answer.. Can someone delete this thread? Thank you!


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[Fishguy2727]

They should be cleaned at least monthly.

[Lady Hobbs]

Actually it probably should remain here so others know the answer to that.

Filters need cleaning. They get a build up of junk you don't want to go back into your tank. Clogging up makes the motor run hotter and less sufficient and it will burn them out if eventually. Tank water will also not be nearly clean enough.

[nanaglen2001]

It depends on how many fish you keep, what kind of fish, how messy those animals are, how big the canister is compared to your tank etc.

I clean my two canisters about every three months. And I have a heavily stocked tank and my fish are messy.