Getting rid of Penguin carbon cartridges

[GiveMeABMW]

I'd like to replace my cartridges with plain ol' cotton batting, but of course
my Penguin manual says their cartridges are essential.

Would removing the carbon be harmful or not?

Should I stagger their removal (have 3 total in 2 different filters)?



Thanks! :D

[Gunther]

In article >,
says...
> I'd like to replace my cartridges with plain ol' cotton batting, but of course
> my Penguin manual says their cartridges are essential.

Well, they would say that, wouldn't they, seeing as they make
a ridiculous amount of money off them. :-)

>
> Would removing the carbon be harmful or not?

Heavens no, no harm at all.
>
> Should I stagger their removal (have 3 total in 2 different filters)?

I wouldn't bother with that. If you've been replacing them as
per the manufacturer's directions, they're not involved in the
biological filtration, so they can just leave. Your biowheels
probably can carry the load just fine.
G

[Vissy Dartae]

> In article >,
> says...
> > I'd like to replace my cartridges with plain ol' cotton batting, but of course
> > my Penguin manual says their cartridges are essential.

You can just rip the old filter stuff off the plastic backing, and
throw it out along with the charcoal. Then you can attach some
"Rite-Size" foam (from the LFS) or batting, cut to fit, with rubber
bands. I notch the plastic backing with a little saw to hold the
rubber bands securely--learned it on the internet somewhere. Works
great and my water is clearer now because of the thicker filter
material. Wheee.