Upgrading my filter and cycling

**Ickyvolnao** · 03-21-2013, 06:26 AM

I am currently in the process of fish-in cycling. I have a 29 Gal tank with an Aqueon 20 or 30 (I am not sure which model # it is because it came in a combo pack with my tank and I can't seem to find a number printed anywhere visible without taking the filter out of my tank, also the instructions don't specify which model it is.)

Anyway, I am interested in upgrading my filter to the Aquaclear 70. I like that it will definitely be more than powerful enough for my tank, and there is a place to put my own media, unlike the Aqueon that I have.

My question is, how do I go about changing my filter?

I have read that most of the BB takes up residence in the filter so I am worried that removing my filter and replacing it with a new one would disrupt the cycling process. I am also worried that if I wait and replace it once the tank is fully cycled that most of the BB would go away with the Aqueon, which would cause a set back and be potentially dangerous for my fish.

Any assistance is appreciated, thanks!

**genocidex** · 03-21-2013, 06:30 AM

best solution, run both filters in the cycle. then about 2 weeks after you can remove the aqueon.

**Ickyvolnao** · 03-21-2013, 02:52 PM

I'll do that. Thanks.

**Cermet** · 03-21-2013, 03:13 PM

A major problem here - it gerally takes longer to cycle a new filter than two weeks; most people here say give it five weeks before removing the old (cycled) filter. Again, a problem: your old filter isn't fully cycled so be careful. In any case, once both are cycled, removing one will cause a mini spike so expect that and use very large water changes to address the sudden increase in ammonia. This should pass quickly (but may last up to a week) so be ready for that after removing the old filter.

**Lady Hobbs** · 03-21-2013, 04:48 PM

If you got the 29 gallon kit, then the filter that come with it is probably the 30 gallon. However, all filters give an "up to" number they use. So your filter is probably adequate for 20 gallon but may be lacking for a 30 gallon unless you have it very lightly stocked.

You can upgrade to the 70 but you need to remove all the media in the 30 and add that to the new filter. I would personally wait until you have the 30 fully cycled and then add the media from the 30 to the new filter. Disrupting a brand new cycle is not the way to fly unless you have just started this cycle. If it's only just begun, you aren't messing up anything much.

**genocidex** · 03-21-2013, 06:23 PM

Originally Posted by Cermet

A major problem here - it gerally takes longer to cycle a new filter than two weeks; most people here say give it five weeks before removing the old (cycled) filter. Again, a problem: your old filter isn't fully cycled so be careful. In any case, once both are cycled, removing one will cause a mini spike so expect that and use very large water changes to address the sudden increase in ammonia. This should pass quickly (but may last up to a week) so be ready for that after removing the old filter.

cermet i was saying to finish off the cycle first with the new filter and old filter (i am assuming the op was in the earlier stages) then after the tank is 100% cycled wait at least 2 weeks.