Done cycling - filter and water changes

[KuyaD]

After 4 weeks, my 55g and 29g tanks are done cycling. I did not use live rock/sand, but I added Microbe-lift Special Blend bacteria as instructed. I have a mix of Marineland Penguin, Aqueon, and Tetra hang on the back filters. When should I change the filter cartridges (I plan to have 1 new cartridge running on one filter in the tank, and an old cartridge in another filter)? When can I start doing water changes?

 

[Mr. Mojo Rising]

What is the nitrate level? Once the cycle is done, usually have higher nitrates, so usually perform a water change then go buy the first fish.

Do you have any flow in the tank, any powerheads in there for flow?

 

[KuyaD]

Nitrates are zero ... no extra flow other than from hang on back filters. I just found info on the Aqueon website to change filters after 30 days

 

[Mr. Mojo Rising]

always good to have powerheads in the tank, biofiltration work with rocks and flow, water should be pushed through the rocks or else they will collect algae and gunk and detritus. The filter cartridge is not that useful, it will just hold gunk and food that will decompose and foul the water. Lots of research is required in this hobby, this will hep you get started.

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