4 simple questions about carbon

[nemofish2217]

i have some carbon lying around and i think i decided to start running since i've heard such good things.... so here we go...

1. how much carbon per gallon of water is a good start?

2. if i am using filter bags to hold it in, do i just put the bag in a relatively high flow spot (such as the overflow box)?

3. how often do you guys change our your carbon?

4. Do you have to introduce it slowly as to not shock your inhabitants?

any input is welcome....thanks

 

[nemofish2217]

...time to move it back up to the top......and i think i got number 3 answered....about 2-3 weeks for changing.....

 

[Craig Lambert]

1. It should say on the container. I use Hydrocarbon (two little fishes) which requires 11 tbsp for a 75G tank. (including sump that is a total 69 Gal. of water when accounting for rock and dsb.

2. Yes. A high flow location. My bag hangs off of my skimmer next to a baffle.

3. Depends on the carbon. I change mine out every two weeks.

4. No

Make sure that you thoroughly rinse it in the bag before placing it in its location. It will blow off lots of black gunk into the water if not rinsed first. I rinse my bag really well in tap water, and then a final rinse in RODI.