How long does carbon last?

[Pyramid_Party]

Realistically, how long does carbon last? Does it matter the size or each has the same life? Like do small quantities of carbon in like a filter cartridge last as long as the carbon inside an AC110?


Also, please dont tell me not to use it because its worthless, I use it anyway just to be on the safe side because you never know what could get in your water. Thx

 

[xiahaolong168]

they last 2-3 months and after that, they start realesing harmful things into your water.

 

[Pyramid_Party]

Yeah I heard the same. But how do you know when your carbon is no good anymore? Is there some signs that let you know its no good?

 

[HarleyK]

Not that it's worthless, it's harmful. It depletes trace minerals from the water. It has been linked to "hole in the head" in fish and stunned growth in plants. You can use it for up to 3 weeks to remove medication from your water. Then throw it out.

 

[chesterthehero]

all depends how much water flows through it and how much "extra" is in the water... could be a week.. could be a year...

 

[WeeNe858]

I would only use carbon as an intense quick clean-up for clarity or smells in the tank. Other than that I would do without it. The way carbon works is relative to a honeycomb, as water passes through the carbon the gunk collects inside the pods. Over time the pods get filled and the carbon is considered dead. So depending on the amount of impurities in your tank, it can last anywhere from a day to 3 months.

 

[Knowdafish]

It really depends on the quantity and the quality of the carbon. It lasts until it can't absorb anymore! There are too many variables.

 

[WeeNe858]

i don't understand the first part of your question. but I'm one of those who doesn't use carbon. i find it pointless if your tank is well filtered.

 

[Pyramid_Party]

But how do you safeguard from accidents or unaware chemicals added to your tank? Thats what has me worried. There can be an unexpected chemical added. SO thats the reason why I use it.


But then on the other side of it, its said it removes/depletes minerals that are beneficial. I dont know, its all confusing.

 

[NotoriousSway]

But how do you safeguard from accidents or unaware chemicals added to your tank? Thats what has me worried. There can be an unexpected chemical added. SO thats the reason why I use it.

I don't use carbon. If your worried about chemicals in your tap water Prime or any water conditioner that removes heavy metals should take care of it. If your really worried you could use RO water or a tap water filter for drinking water. The only accidents that I could think of is if your hands had chemicals on them when you doing maintenance on your tank, in that case just wash your hand and rinse them well.