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Whisper PF10 Filter Change while Cycling

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#1 ·
I'm in the process of cycling a 10G tank. The filter I have is the Tetra Whisper PF10 which has the bio bag and the black sponge thing. The bio bag seems to be significantly reducing the flow of water through the filter causing it to spill back into the tank through the intake section. I've tried swishing the bag around in tank water when doing a water change but it doesn't seem to be having any effect. Should I replace the bag? My understanding is that the sponge is for the bacteria while the bag is to provide chemical filtration, however I'm thinking the bacteria will still grow on the bag as well. Using the API test kit it looks like I'm just beginning to show signs of nitrates, so I'm hesitant to make any changes. Thank you!
 
#2 ·
Were it me,,, and it's not, I would leave it alone. IF,,, however,, the water stopped flowing and i felt the need to replace the bag,, I would drop the old bag in the tank and leave it for a couple weeks. Changing the filter now could prolong the tanks ability to produce the beneficial bacteria that you have been waiting on to develop.;-)
 
#3 ·
Once you have 0 ammonia and 0 nitrites with nitrAte readings for a couple weeks ,then,, You could replace the bag and rinse it in old aquarium water each week during WEEKLy water changes.The black sponge can be squeezed out in same aquarium water that you take out during water changes and stuck back in. You would not want to ever replace it.
 
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