filter pads/sponges in canister/hobs

[jcs11236]

hey guys:
i was curious in knowinw what you guys felt about using/having filter pads running in your canister/hobs
i have gotten mixed reviews about this. i was told that they are fine to use to pick up debris as well as an extra biological filtration . then i was told that they will hike up my nitrates levels in my tankif i use them.

what do you guys think ?
:wlift

 

[djconn]

I would not and never have used filter pads in my HOB. Most folks would generally agree in that filter pads will eventually become nothing more than a nitrate factory in your tank and increase your levels.

Some people do use carbon pads. I run small carbon pads every once in a while in my aquaclear for one month periods. It seems to 'polish' off the water a little.

Hope that helps.

 

[jcs11236]

djconn

do you think it would be a problem still even if i rinse/clean them when i do my weekly water changes.

i jus feel like i need the pads in my canister so it could help me pick up floatin debris

i dont know

 

[incysor]

Wow. Deja-vu. :roll:

B

 

[Sugar Magnolia]

Hmm, I've always used them. The sponges are inexpensive and are replaced with a new one when weekly water changes are done.

 

[jcs11236]

lol--yea--sorry--im jus a little anal---i want to kno what others think--not to say that i dont respect and take your advice

your the only one on this site other than djconn that actually replies to my post

thanks for your advices incysor :lol:

 

[djconn]

If you feel that it takes care of your floating debris then by all means do it. I just know that I tend to slack on weekly water changes and changing out pads would be just one more thing to do. You get my point.

Give it a go and just keep on eye on your 'trates. :cool1:

 

[jcs11236]

okay!

thanks for all your advices!

 

[incysor]

lol--yea--sorry--im jus a little anal---i want to kno what others think--not to say that i dont respect and take your advice

your the only one on this site other than djconn that actually replies to my post

thanks for your advices incysor :lol:

Actually I don't care if you think I'm a nimrod. But posting the same question all over the board generally won't get it answered any quicker.
This is a small board, and it can take a day or two to get all your questions answered when you have a bunch. I love this one because the people are a bit friendlier than some of the others, but if I have an emergency I post it here, wait a bit, then post it on the higher-traffic boards if nobody has responded. It's not because folks aren't interested, just that there aren't as many here, and most folks can't sit on here most of the day like I can. :lol3:

B

 

[jcs11236]

okay--i understand

sorry buddy!

:???:

 

[Miss Reef Tank]

I use filter sponges in both my filters, I rinse them in old tank water twice a week and they are always full. They do take a lot of junk out of the water. As long as you clean them regulary I think they are ok.