how often should i wash the filter

[fishfinder]

jus wanna know how often should i wash the filter..the external ones. also, what should i put in it besides sponge n bio rings. pls advise. thks!!
now, i am laso hving problems with those bba...dun knw how to remove them...should i tear it down n start all over again? what r the things i need to tkae note to prevent further bba from coming back.

[|squee|]

I wash it yearly. I put sponge, ceramic rings, and biohome. Lots more sponge in my case...

BBA-wise, search the forums for details explanation It's the problem of fluctuating/insufficent CO2 levels. It's a difficult issue for people to get right in their tanks, don't be disheartened.

[Leonard]

rarely wash the filter... even if i do i use org tank water to do it... still want the good batierial to work.... cotton wool jus replace... hope that help

[MdmBudak]

How often you wash depends on your bioload and feeding habits.

I wash my filter every 3-4 months, rise the bio-media with tank water and replace filter wool; I also flush the hoses with a piece of tissue paper.

[juggler]

How often you wash depends on your bioload and feeding habits.

I wash my filter every 3-4 months, rise the bio-media with tank water and replace filter wool; I also flush the hoses with a piece of tissue paper.

Same here.
If we do weekly water change to our planted tanks, we should also maintain the filter regularly.