Things You'll Need
- Filter floss (optional)
- Nylon pouch containing activated carbon
- 2-quart plastic jug
Instructions
Turn the canister filter off and unplug it from the power supply during the water change.
Remove both the exhaust and intake tubes from the canister filter.
Loosen the clips that are securing the top of the canister and remove it.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Scoop up aquarium water in the 2-quart plastic jug and fill the canister filter to just below where the top will fit on.
Replace the top of the canister and secure it with the clips. Plug the filter into a power supply.
Prime the canister, if your model requires this. Press down on the priming button five or six times and turn on the filter.