How often do you change carbon?

[MedicBMC]

As I've been getting ready for my re-entry into the hobby, I've also been increasing my knowledge through research. I'm breaking down the components of filtration and found mixed answers to a very simple question:

How often do you change out carbon?

I've used different media whether it be regular activated carbon, chemi-pure elite, BRS ROX0.8 etc. changing it anywhere from 4 weeks to 3 months thinking it was still "active" and absorbing dissolved organics. Wrong.

"...all carbons used in salt water have an absorption curve that peaks rapidly in the first 24 to 48 hours. Adsorption then drops off gradually over the next 10 to 14 days, partly due to the media becoming more saturated with bound organic dies and dissolved organic compounds, but also due to increasing bacterial colonisation which gradually fills the porous structure limiting further uptake. By day 14, the carbon is effectively useless."http://www.theaquariumsolution.com/rowa-carbon-question

Basically, a simultaneous function of carbon after 48 hours is exactly what live rock does for us. I believe this is a good thing and although I don't plan on changing carbon out every 48 hours I do plan on doing what worked for me in the past, changing it out every 2-3 months. So what works for you?

Discuss.

 

[SchnitzelReef]

I've gone back and fourth on carbon. I started by running bags of carbon, But then figured it was better to run it in a reactor. I used to always run it, and I would change it like once a month. After more reading, it seemed like that was not the correct way to run carbon. That after a few days/a week the carbon stops doing it's job and becomes exhausted. After I stopped running carbon, I noticed no difference in water quality or coral/fish health. I now only run carbon for a few days maybe once every 2 months. Not sure if it does anything, but I have a container of it and figured why not. IMO It's not necessary if ur doing regular water changes.


Hot Dogs are GOOD!

 

[thresher]

Keep it on hand when you need it.......issues due to dieoff, accidental spillage of toxic chemicals, or other emergency uses......otherwise change it when you have time or feel the need the have your tank water look cleaner. I too run carbon every so often and don't stress too much if it the carbon is neglected.