when you change carbon?

[TekCat]

I started to run carbon in my Magnum 350. Just wanted to know how often do you change your carbon? (in case you running one)

 

[Blown 346]

Carbon usually lasts about a month, depending on what you are using it for.

 

[TekCat]

Well, to start off: dissolved organics, heavy metals, phosphate.

 

[dchao]

Best place to start is to read the instructions for the Magnum 350.

 

[TekCat]

I did, it says one month. I have no problem with that, just wanted to know what are other people doing.

 

[masterswimmer]

I TRY to change it every 4 weeks. Never really knew that carbon removes PO4 though. Try phosban or rowaphos for that.

Russ

 

[PatMayo]

TekCat, the rule of thumb is once per month unless you have a real high bio load. Some folks change it more often again depending on bio load.

It may also depend on the type and quality of the carbon that you run.

Take a look at Morten Nordby's tank of the month. He uses 3 tablespoons of carbon in his tank and replaces it every 3 days at the same time he replaces his filter sock. So you see it really depends on how you want to use it. I personally think a month is too long. I think every 2 weeks is more realistic. If you have a high bio load you may need to change it more often.

I use Chemi-pure. It seems to keep my PH more stable than without.

Regards,

Pat

 

[TekCat]

Wow, I just did a quick google on Chemi-Pure. I am impressed with their claims. However what exactly it removes?

Pat, do you use it as is, or mix it with carbon? Also they say it is good up to six month, do you still change it every 2 weeks?

 

[joe90usa]

I have a Magnum 350 as well. I bought it used, so it came with no documentation. How much carbon is supposed to be added to it? I'm using research grade carbon, but I can't remember the manufacturer of that. I've been filling the magnum to the point where it would overflow into the middle portion of filter if I continued. I'm hoping to hear that less is better!

 

[Saltywater]

I change my carbon every two weeks when I do my water change. It seems to work very well for me.

 

[SeanySean]

I change my carbon once every 2 months