"...." wrote in message
...
I am using a cascade 1500 with matrix biofilter media. I was wondering if
I
should run the filter without the filter pads that came with it, or run it
with them in? I removed the carbon baggie [as per the lfs advise], but
kept
just in case. Any suggestions?


Any brand of "canister filer" will have chamber or block. These chamber /
block can be use for any purpose for your situation. You can use to clean
your water or obserb chemical / odor.

Carbon absorb - odor or smell. If you have add some kind of chemical or
medicine to your tank, carbon will absorb it while it pass through. Or if
you have a decaying stuff and cause odor, carbon will absorb that too.

Filter (floss / BiosBall) - This is a mechanical function. Depending how
dense or coarse, the debris that travel along with your water circulation
will need to pass through your floss / filter chamber and will get stuck /
trap until it get clog. The finer the floss, the smaller debris will catch.
Therefore, you tank will look cleaner.

Both Carbon and Filter will need to be clean or replace as it will get clog
and increase nitrate. Again, carbon only need when there a chemical or odar
you think it need to be remove. Otherwise, filter is only needed.

Do you get the general idea?

Note:
If you tank is a Reef type of tank, you normally do not need a canister
filter.

CapFusion,...