Cleaning out filters

[wrslrcichlid]

I mean that when filters get over clogged with fish waste, that collection of fish waste can start releasing a large amount of ammonia that eventually becomes nitrate. It really has nothing to do with how well the filter works - just controls your cleaning schedule.

The introduction of new fish is the most likely candidate IMO for your mini cycle. This is not uncommon at. Basically your livestock probably overwhelmed your beneficial bacteria (BB) meaning it couldn't keep up with the ammonia being produced. Assuming you have enough filtration your BB should continue to grow and eventually be able to handle the new fish. Again, this is assuming you have enough filtration and that you have not overstocked your tank.

 

[wrslrcichlid]

My suggestion would be to continue doing medium sized water changes every day until your ammonia is 0 and the nitrates are at a reasonable level.

Another thought would be to add some plants, submerged or otherwise. Pothos works surprisingly well at removing nitrates, since plants actually "eat" nitrates.

 

[evox53187]

Kk cool thanks I just cleaned one and it was really dirty pads looked like mud.

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[evox53187]

I also was looking into getting a third filter and have all pads would that help. Or should I fill it all up with bio max

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[wrslrcichlid]

If your pads were really that dirty, I think you found your issue. I don't know other people's schedule, but I usually at a minimum try to rinse out my filter pads once a week - or at least once every two weeks.

 

[rodger]

You didn't give any information about what the filters are, tank size and livestock. If they look like mud in 4 months they are being overwhelmed. They should be fully established in that time. Are you overfeeding? Uneaten food clogs filters quicker than fish waste. I clean my cannisters once a year and usually they are so clean I wonder why I bothered.