How long does carbon last?

[Pyramid_Party]

I totally understand why you guys dont use it. But could you list what the pros and cons are for using carbon?

 

[Corrado93]

they start realesing harmful things into your water.

im not a chemist or a pro, but apparently this is a myth. i read a detailed thread on this a long time ago.

C

 

[sp33dstix]

would it be best to remove the carbon from the media first before adding it to my filter? i've heard of people not using carbon. is this common?

I don't use carbon either. IFFFFFFF I do use it, it is to remove medication.

 

[Wajrhall]

im not a chemist or a pro, but apparently this is a myth. i read a detailed thread on this a long time ago.

C

I agree, something that NEUTRALIZES toxins isn't going to all of a sudden start leaching toxins into the water. Not to mention why is it so widely used if it's hazardous.

I have read different articles that state carbon acts as a place for benificial bacteria to take hold once it's been used up. Lot's of surface area.

Personally I use it an let it remain in my hob filters until the pad is clogged enough to reduce my flow.

 

[jackdaniel]

I'd love to get a solid answer on this one, but it seems to be like the butter vs. margarine debate in that it won't be solved for quite some time.

Personally, I'm using the Fluval carbon that came with my 305 canister right now to help get the BB in the tank started and to remove the ammonia/nitrates/nitrites, as I've read it can do. I've also heard that carbon, depending on quality, can break down within weeks or last up to three months. I'm sure there are many variables, though. Once the BB is set up in the BioMax media and the water levels "level out", I'll be removing the carbon and adding more BioMax.

Side note: I use cheap carbon on the bottom of my corner/box filters in my smaller tanks and have never had problems with the carbon leeching out harmful chemicals.