Confusion over BioMax ...

**mermaidwannabe** · 02-05-2011, 02:53 AM

I was advised here that I would never need to change or replace my Biomax so long as it doesn't become contaminated. That makes sense, as once the BB is established in it, one wouldn't want to remove it and have to grow a new colony on a replacement.

However, I keep reading the instructions that came with my AC that the biomax should be replaced every three months or so. The AC folks themselves have said to only replace 50% of it at a time, so as to retain half the BB. Naturally, the inadequate brochure directions don't specify this 50% caveat.

So my question is, why do they say to replace Biomax every three months if there's no contamination of the existing Biomax? Do those BB just die off by themselves and become toxic, over time, and thus the need to replace?

Or is this yet another marketing ploy to get you to buy more of their product when it really isn't necessary? (Like replacing the carbon cartridges every month when having carbon in the filter really isn't necessary under normal conditions).

Can somebody clear this up? Thanks in advance ...

-- mermaidwannabe

**Brhino** · 02-05-2011, 02:57 AM

Originally Posted by mermaidwannabe

Or is this yet another marketing ploy to get you to buy more of their product when it really isn't necessary?

you got it.

**Cliff** · 02-05-2011, 03:02 AM

There is nothing wrong with leaving your biomax in your filter. You only need to make sure that it will not become clogged. If it does, you could loose some of your BB. That might be what they are talking about, or they just could be trying to increase sales.

Either way, as long as you have a good maintance routine, you won't have to worry

I've been using the same biomax for a year now and it's still keeping a good healthy tank that is a heavy stocked. I know poeple who have the same biomax for a little over two years

I would not worry about it

**Fisharefriends27** · 02-05-2011, 03:15 AM

NEVER replace it. just like you said companies hate fish but love $$$

Good Luck!

**mermaidwannabe** · 02-05-2011, 03:30 AM

I thought so!

The only exception would be if it becomes contaminated. Am I correct in assuming that would only happen if there is disease in the tank which could release its own toxins, and/or if the tank is medicated directly, could the medications further contaminate the Biomax?

Are there any other conditions besides these that would cause contamination of the Biomax?

In otherwords, under what conditions could contamination of the Biomax occur, and how would I know if it has become contaminated?

No problems in the tank yet, but I'm asking so I can be prepared in case something does happen (which shouldn't if I do my part and maintain the tank properly.)

Thanks, folks.

-- mermaid