I assume you're talking about the filter in the QT.I ould keep the copper at the suggested dosage for at least 6 weeks. At the appropriate time, remove the copper with carbon or cuprisorb. If you're not going to use the QT soon, you can dry the QT media for a few weeks and put it in a good flow area of your DT to re-cycle. It will be ready to instantly cycle a QT/HT when needed