How to Properly Install a Carbon Filter in a Fish Tank

A carbon filter can be an invaluable addition in eliminating discoloration, odors or toxins from your salt or freshwater aquarium. Though some aquarists use carbon continuously, it is best utilized in crisis situations. A few good examples of when to use carbon are after a period of medicating your tank to remove residual medication, when your octopus inks in your tank or when you have added new driftwood that is leaking tannins. Carbon is sold loose for filters that have a cabinet designed for carbon. For most filters, you want to buy carbon that comes in pre-measured sachets.

Things You'll Need

  • Carbon sachet
  • Fresh water rinse
  • Aquarium filter (canister, hang-on-back or drip)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Thoroughly rinse the carbon filter sachet with fresh water. Rinsing removes dust and residue that could cause discoloration in your aquarium.

    • 2

      Turn off or unplug your aquarium's filter.

    • 3

      Place the carbon sachet under the sponge media of your filter, but above any other filtration media. How exactly to do this depends on the sort of filter you have--canister, hang-on-back or drip filter. Some filters come with spaces designed especially for carbon. The location of the carbon below the sponge but still near the inflow allows for plenty of water flow through the sachet, while the sponge will keep the sachet from getting clogged by fish waste and uneaten food.

    • 4

      Lay the carbon sachet as flat as possible.

    • 5

      Dry your hands and turn on or plug in your filter.

    • 6

      Remove or replace the carbon sachet in a few days to two weeks, depending on the sachet manufacturer's guidelines and if the problem you sought to fix has cleared up.