I want to replace the carbon/zeolite in my filter…will that affect the balance of the water?
Hello, It depends on what your filtration set up is. You have (hopefully) 3 types. Mechanical filtration: This is the “pad or sponge” that catches free floating pieces of debris. Chemical filtration: This will be your carbon or zeolite as you have mentioned that will remove impurities/heavy metals/ammonia. Biological filtration is where your beneficial ammonia eating/nitrite converting bacteria will grow. Biological filtration will be in the form of a protein skimmer combo (CPR bakpak, etc) or a bio wheel, or some other medium that provides water flow and a place for the bacteria to make a home. This may even be a separate pad or sponge housing in/on your hanging filter. This is one that the directions will tell you not to clean off. I would highly recommend changing your activated carbon and zeolite on a monthly basis at a minimum. Carbon will help give your water that crystal clear look and will pull out toxins and heavy metals. Contrary to popular belief, activated carbon does not r