rinsing cartridge ? for 305 fluval canister

GwenInNM

I've had my fluval 305 running now for less than 2 months. How often is it needed to take out the cartridges and rinse them in tank water or clean water with water conditioner? I have no idea of this, and need suggestions.

The tank is 43 gal, stocked to a decent level, but not over stocked. I do approx. 50% wc each week, and when I do my wc, my nitrates are a bit more than 5ppm, but not at 10ppm. I do have live plants.

Thanks

Gwen

DKRST

I can't speak directly regarding the Fluval, but I end up cleaning my Eheim 2215 much more frequently than I originally planned to (lots of plant debris in my tank). I break down the filter for cleaning whenever the filtered water outflow decreases significantly. I find that's the best gauge for me for cleaning frequency.

GwenInNM

Thanks - that brings up another question. I have my output hose about 3-4 inches from the top of the water. I'm wondering if I should have it closer to the top, if not even skimming the top to create more water movement on top.

Gwen

Byron

As was mentioned, the flow from the filter is something to keep an eye on. The filter will run best (i.e., be most effective and efficient) if the water is able to flow through the media at the intended rate for the filter; once it starts getting blocked, it will either decrease the filter's efficiency or it may be able to find an alternate route around the media and this also means ineffective filtration. Each tank is different, and the fish load both in terms of numbers and also of size (and in some cases species) is the prime factor in this. Plant debris collecting in the filter is also a factor, since this will impede the flow.

Filter manufacturers often recommend a schedule for cleaning (= rinsing media and pads/foam) and replacing media. The replacement is something that normally is not necessary provided the media is still effectively doing its job. I'm not sure exactly what the cartridges you mention are, so I can't say much more at the moment.

Rather than wait for the water flow to slow, I find that after a few months it is possible to gage when the filter will need cleaning, and again each tank and each filter will or may be different. My 115g has a Rena XP3 and I find it needs cleaning (=rinsing) every 2 months or it will slow very significantly. My 90g and 70g with an Eheim Pro II is fine at 4 months. I never notice any change in flow in the Eheims, I just know that in 4-5 months the pads will be "dirty" and need it. The Rena for some reason clogs much faster and the flow reduces. The first time after I set it up it was the fish that pointed this out to me; I noticed the corys were respirating faster and getting a bit lethargic--when I started checking around, the reduced water flow from the filter caught my attention. A thorough cleaning of the filter was all that was needed, and the corys were back to their normal behaviours. Ever since, I've done it every 2 months.

Byron.

AbbeysDad

There are many factors that will dictate the required frequency of filter maintenance. The combinations of filter, filter type, filter efficiency, bio-load are endless.
The only way to know for sure is to monitor, inspect and adjust the frequency as required to ensure proper operation.
On average, I'd bet that the Fluval 305 with an avg bio-load will probably require tear down cleaning once every 2-3 months - but again, it varies significantly.

GwenInNM

Thanks all! I'll check it in the couple weeks and see how it looks. Appreciate the feedback.

Gwen

DKRST

If you get a film forming on the surface, you may need more surface agitation, otherwise you can leave as is!

patadams66

exactly why would they be respirating fast? not to get off track, just something i have never looked for.

GwenInNM

Thanks for that - helpful. I had noticed a very small amount of film, and couldn't figure out why I had that, because I wash my hands carefully before I put them in the tank. I did my wc yesterday, and moved it to the surface, before I saw your post, but now I'm glad I did.

So, because I see the same thing (film on surface) in my other, smaller tank, I'm wondering how to create more surface movement in that tank. I have a HOB Aquaclear in that one. I could put in air stone in, but really don't want to. Is it "bad" to not have enough surface movement?? I have 2 German Rams and 8 Cardinals in this smaller tank, and want to make sure they all stay healthy.

Gwen

GwenInNM

I'm guessing that rapid respiration, means a lack of oxygen in the water.

Gwen