bio-chem stars & ceramic rings

[SCcten]

Hello" I am going to add some more biological filtration to my 2 rena xp3s (inplace of carbon) I am currently using biochem stars and would like to add some ceramic rings. Some brands of rings (Rena) state that the do not need to be replaced under normal use. Fluva ceramic rings that my local pet store carrys say they need to be replaced every 6 months.
1. Do they need to be replaced or not
2. any difference between stars or ceramic rings in terms of becteria growth ?

Thank you all for your help !

[Northernguy]

I have been using my bio max and biochem stars since I bought the filters a couple of years ago.I just rinse them off once in a while in tank water while doing a water change.
The media with the largest surface areas are best.Thats where the bacteria grows.Larger area more bacteria.

[Sarkazmo]

1. Probably, eventually, you would have to replace to keep the maximum surface area available to biological colonization. The pores in the material will eventually get clogged and lower the total available amount of surface area. I've never replaced them in any of my filters. I bag loose rings and add them to all my filters.

2. Total surface area for physical size would probably be the best way to determine which is better for an application. Either should do a great job though. I use rings, some use bio-balls, other stars, and still others use even more types. Personal preference, ability to put a lot of media in the same given space, susceptibility to becoming clogged...

I didn't help, did I? heh

Sark

[lowlight]

I use the Rena stars and the Fluval rings in my Xp3 and have never replaced them and there is still room for whatever. The filter has been running for 5 years.