When should I clean my canister filter?

Discussion in 'Filters, Pumps, etc..' started by jmoney, Jul 4, 2013.

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  1. jmoney

    jmoney Astrea Snail

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    Just finished my cycle after 5 weeks and did my 1st water change. Should I clean my canister now?
     
    jmoney, Jul 4, 2013
    jmoney, Jul 4, 2013
    #1

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  2. Mr. Bill

    Mr. Bill Native Floridian

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    If you have carbon in it or if the mechanical media looks dirty, yes.
     
    Mr. Bill, Jul 4, 2013
    Mr. Bill, Jul 4, 2013
    #2
  3. Todd_Sails

    Todd_Sails Giant Squid

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    I'd clean it just before I put it on CL for sale
    Any way to rig a sump container on your set up?

    LOL
     
    Todd_Sails, Jul 4, 2013
    Todd_Sails, Jul 4, 2013
    #3
  4. AZDesertRat

    AZDesertRat Giant Squid

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    Canisters are rarely used in reef systems due to nitrate problems but yes it is time to rinse it.
    Use some of the saltwater you take out of the display rather than tap of fresh water so you do not kill the saltwater bacteria present in and on the canister media.
     
    AZDesertRat, Jul 4, 2013
    AZDesertRat, Jul 4, 2013
    #4
  5. Mr. Bill

    Mr. Bill Native Floridian

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    I agree, canisters can be a PITA to clean, and it needs to be done frequently as trapped detritus will leach DOCs back into the tank, increasing Nitrate production. OTOH, they are highly efficient at removing particulate waste, and with a low to moderate bioload, can be a viable alternative to a sump. :p
     
    Mr. Bill, Jul 4, 2013
    Mr. Bill, Jul 4, 2013
    #5
  6. jmoney

    jmoney Astrea Snail

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    Lol! I knew this was coming. I don't have room for a sump underneath nor do I trust my kids or dogs enough to have waer that low! I know it's a pain but I have run one on a reef in the past, just don't remember when I first started cleaning it. I know I cleaned it just about every week with water changes.
    Thanks for the answers though!
     
    jmoney, Jul 4, 2013
    jmoney, Jul 4, 2013
    #6

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  7. DSC reef

    DSC reef Giant Squid

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    I use a marineland HOB on my reef and I clean the media about once a week in saltwater. Its more work but my tank flourishes without a sump. However, once I move into the new house a sump is going in. Lol.
     
    DSC reef, Jul 4, 2013
    DSC reef, Jul 4, 2013
    #7
  8. Todd_Sails

    Todd_Sails Giant Squid

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    You did see the LOL right?

    I'm sure you'll do fine, and you have the answer to your OP question.
    Keep on reefing, and enjoy!!
    Welcome to 3Reef
     
    Todd_Sails, Jul 4, 2013
    Todd_Sails, Jul 4, 2013
    #8
  9. jmoney

    jmoney Astrea Snail

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    I did see it, lol.... No problems. Thanks for the input!
     
    jmoney, Jul 4, 2013
    jmoney, Jul 4, 2013
    #9
  10. oldfishkeeper

    oldfishkeeper Giant Squid

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    +1 to Mr. Bill. I would advise you to take out the ceramic balls. You don't need them and minimize the amount or number of sponges you put in it. I kind of was a tad attached to my canister :)
     
    oldfishkeeper, Jul 4, 2013
    oldfishkeeper, Jul 4, 2013
    #10