Carbon, for how long?

[Mr.Reefer]

For how long can I use carbon on my reef tank?

[Aqua-holic]

Some people use carbon all the time and others never use it I think it is a matter of preference. As for when it should be changed is dependent upon the type of carbon you use, the better grade of carbon the longer it will last. standard filter cartridges are usually only good for about 1 month but the higher grade or medical grade carbon can last for 3 months or more. spent carbon will rerelease all the things it has removed back into the aquarium if it is left in too long.

[Mr.Reefer]

Originally Posted by Aqua-holic

spent carbon will rerelease all the things it has removed back into the aquarium if it is left in too long.

humm, how can I tell is time to change it before it start polluting my tank?

[Aqua-holic]

most quality carbons such as seachem matrix, marineland,Rowa etc. are good for 2 to 3 months large chunk charcoal type filter media is usally good for 30 days or less usually there will be a label on each with a recommeded time for replacement. The new resins such as chemi pure and pura are good for 3 to 6 months.

[Madcaptains]

When use as a chemical reducer, most carbon should be replace every couple month. As others said, you don't really need it but many like to have some at all time. personnally, I use my carbon as a bacteria bed and it's my only filtration system in most of my tanks. use this way I am good for a good 4 to 6 years. For any other use of carbon, replace it after a couple month. For sure, if your tank is super large, you might want to use more carbon or replace it often. To be safe, I would say that if your carbon is a good one, 1lbs per 100g every 6 week is a good guide line.