How to Get My Saltwater Tank to Filter Right After a Water Change

Partial water changes dilute toxins that build up from the metabolic waste of aquarium animals. Both fish and invertebrates, such as lobsters and anemones, enjoy these regular water changes, but aquarium filters will need to be turned off while they are being performed. This is a suitable time to rinse or change filter material as required. Filters are essential to the health of your aquarium and it is important to ensure that each one is primed and running correctly, once they have been turned on again.

Things You'll Need

  • Filter floss (optional)
  • Nylon pouch containing activated carbon
  • 2-quart plastic jug
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Turn the canister filter off and unplug it from the power supply during the water change.

    • 2

      Remove both the exhaust and intake tubes from the canister filter.

    • 3

      Loosen the clips that are securing the top of the canister and remove it.

    • 4

      Remove the filter floss and rinse it well under a running tap if it is not too soiled. If the floss is not reusable due to excessive dirt, discard and replace it.

    • 5

      Remove the nylon pouch containing the activated carbon and discard. Rinse a new pouch under running water, until the water running from the pouch is no longer dark. Place the new pouch into the chemical filter compartment of the canister.

    • 6

      Fill a 2-quart plastic jug with aquarium water and remove the bio balls from the canister. These balls contain beneficial bacteria that are responsible for biological filtration and must not be allowed to dry out. Place them directly into the container and gently swirl them around with your hand to remove any build up of slime. Pour off the dirty water and return the balls to the canister.

    • 7

      Thoroughly rinse both the exhaust and intake tubes under warm running water and re-attach them to the body of the canister filter. Make sure there are no unnecessary bends or kinks in these tubes.

    • 8

      Scoop up aquarium water in the 2-quart plastic jug and fill the canister filter to just below where the top will fit on.

    • 9

      Replace the top of the canister and secure it with the clips. Plug the filter into a power supply.

    • 10

      Prime the canister, if your model requires this. Press down on the priming button five or six times and turn on the filter.