How To Clean A Fish Tank Water Filter
Owning a fish tank or aquarium is an engaging and ongoing hobby. There is a lot to learn.
From the type of tank, to the breed of fish, information can feel never-ending - but the basics always come first. Many may wonder how regularly they should be cleaning out their filtration systems.
Despite how easily accessible replacement filters are, it's important to clean your fish tank filter to save time, money, and effort in maintaining your aquarium.
At Finerfilters, we provide the very best fish tank filtering options for fishkeeping and keep our customers updated with insight through our guides.
Why clean your fish tank water filter?
By maintaining the cleanliness of your filtration system, you improve its effectiveness longer and provide the safest environment for your fish. Cleaning your system properly means you do not have to buy replacement cartridges so frequently.
But cleaning your filter system too often can have negative effects, too.
How often should you clean your filter?
Many will say you must clean it every two weeks to a month, depending on your filter. In reality, how often you clean your filter is dependent on how much you have in your tank, including marine life and ornaments.
For some, two weeks is not enough, and for others, one month is way too often.
An easy way to tell if your filter needs cleaning is by looking at the quality of water in your aquarium. If it looks slightly more murky and not as bright, or if you’re noticing small debris floating in the water, it’s probably time to give your filter a good clean.
Different water filter fish tank cleaning methods
Your cleaning methods will depend on the type of filter you use in your fish tank. To simplify, below is a breakdown of three common types of filters and features that are used in aquarium filtration systems.
Sponge filters
Sponge filters or systems that use sponges are the easiest to maintain because they require a simple wash. Two methods most commonly used to clean sponge filters or sponges found within a system are to either squeeze the sponge in a bucket of tank water or rinse the sponge under a tap.
There are pros and cons to both, as many will say tank water is a must and tap water is dangerous for fish. But rinsing a sponge under the tap prevents the sponge from reabsorbing the dirt and debris that is released into a bucket.
The sponge also holds onto minimal water particles from the tap when squeezed thoroughly, so its effect on the tank water pH is negligible.
Canister Filters, Back-Hanging Filters, and more
Canister filters are large systems often housed under a tank and contain many compartments that should be cleaned, though least often out of any other filter. Its massive system allows it to run for a longer period of time between cleanings, and maintenance is thankfully minimal.
As described above, the sponges found in canister systems can be cleaned however you prefer. As for the canisters and compartments that sit within them, it’s a good idea to use water from your tank and rinse each compartment until you have little debris left behind.
Back-hanging filters are much more straightforward. Just discard any old cartridges that need to be refilled and rinse them in the same direction above.
Don’t be afraid of a little dirt! Some of the buildup you see contains highly beneficial flora that is essential to balancing the pH of your water in your aquarium.
If you’re using carbon filters, you can rinse the filter housing and filter bag gently, doing your best not to disturb the carbon within, as this can damage it and make it less effective over time.
DI resin should always be replaced. Their filters can be rinsed the same way.
Never use soap or detergents to clean your filter systems. This can kill the wonderful bacteria that help to properly balance their home. That, in turn, can end up killing your fish.
Sanitising Reverse Osmosis Filters Systems
Reverse osmosis systems require the most involved maintenance but they are well worth it. They are considered the most effective and accurate systems to ensure your fish’s help while saving tons of wastewater from your tank.
Here’s a simplified breakdown of how to clean your RO system for your fish tank:
- Turn off your RO System - Unplug the RO system and shut off the water supply before cleaning.
- Remove filters from inside - Use the manufacturer's instructions to remove the filters gently so you don’t damage the delicate membrane within.
- Clean the Housings - Use a certified sanitising solution and clean the filter housings and compartments using a gentle brush. Rinse it through fully with RO water to remove any leftover residue. You can also flush sanitised solution diluted with water through the system. Ensure that all filters and membranes are removed from the system before flushing the system through.
- Replace Filters - You can gently rinse current filters with RO water or install new filters, putting them back into the housings securely.
- Test the System - After everything is connected, turn back on the water supply and filter system. Allow the system to run for a bit to make sure everything is working properly before using that water in your tank.
It is important to refer to the manual or consult a filter expert if you’re unsure about cleaning an RO system.
Aquarium water vs. tap - Which is better for your filter?
Using tap water for your filter can be just as dangerous as using it for your tank. This is because there are contaminants like chlorine, which are toxic to fish.
Still, it's okay to use it for minimally rinsing sponges and compartments if they are very dirty and require a more thorough rinse.
The majority of water you use to clean your filter systems, however, should be tank water or dechlorinated water that is safe for your fish.
When in doubt, ask an aquarium filter expert
No one knows your fish, your tank, or your system like you do. If you think you need to clean your filter system, feel free to give it a good clean.
But always remember, if you’re unsure about cleaning your system, reach out to experts, who can give you all the information you need to maintain your home aquariums.
For more instructions on how to install and maintain your filters, check out our videos here.