Washing old filter pads from HOB???

[landmineyouth]

I just read this article in the forums here, but here is a quote which I found interesting:

Hang On Back Filter Systems:
"HOB units are designed mostly for convenience but have evolved over the years into some very useful tools. They are generally a good low cost alternative for smaller tanks. They work by pumping water out of the tank by way of a pick up tube and then through a pad or series of pads and then back into the tank by way of a ‘waterfall’ type outlet. These kinds of filters do a very good job on small to medium sized tanks and are even a welcome addition to larger ones but they have a few drawbacks. The water returns on most HOB units are noisy and they tend to vibrate. Additionally the replaceable pads that make servicing the units so convenient and fast are an on-going expense. A lot of hobbyists either make their own clean-able pads or modify the filters to use cheaper substitutes."


Is that to say, that I can simply wash out my filter cartridges once a week or two... and then add them back to the tank?? I seem to remember hearing never to do that in the past... but if this is possible, it would save me loads on filter replacement pads on my HOB Filtered tanks.

 

[pcfriedrich]

the only reason you would want to replace the pad with a brand new one is if you are interested in filtering your water with fresh carbon. I just rinse mine.

most likely, you heard "never do that" from the manufacturer trying to sell you replacements, or a third party who got their info from the manufacturer. there is actually a biological benefit to reusing them. BB colonies form on the pads.

I did an informal poll on here a while back, and the majority of the people who respond reuse them, as well. some cut them to remove the carbon. there were a few people who haven't bought a new filter cartridge in over a year.

 

[CHOMPERS]

I have some that are over two years old.

 

[Frostyone]

I've had the same filter pad for my HOT Magnum since I bought it, and wont replace it until it gets destroyed. I just rinse it once a week.

 

[duke33]

When it does fall apart, just make your own out of plastic pot scrubbies.

 

[xFLEAxx]

I rinse mine about once a week and then when it gets rediculously dirty I just replace it. But thats not very often. Its too bad the pads cost so much but I'm sure you could find a way to make cheaper alternatives.

 

[landmineyouth]

So now my question is, once the pad has been used so often, how well does it trap debris and keep the tank clean?? And is just rinsing it through water a good cleaning procedure??

 

[frasertheking]

use some tank water and just give it a good squeeze and move it about.all the crap will jut wash out. the pad should not become less effective for man years.

 

[pcfriedrich]

I rinse mine about once a week and then when it gets rediculously dirty I just replace it. But thats not very often. Its too bad the pads cost so much but I'm sure you could find a way to make cheaper alternatives.

green pot scrubbers and polyester quilt batting make great cheaper alternatives.

 

[oscarluvr]

green pot scrubbers and polyester quilt batting make great cheaper alternatives.