cycling question

[katmandew]

I read some things online but nothing about my particular filter. Here's my take on using a sponge and PLEASE correct me if I'm wrong.

I have a Top Fin 10 that came with the tank. There are two slots, one holds a plastic base with a thin pad attached that slides into the slot, in the other slot the carbon sack slides in. From what I gather I take out the carbon sack and cut a piece of aquarium sponge the same size and push it down into the slot. When I do water changes I rinse both pieces in the bucket of water that I removed from the tank. Does this sound right?

[shellieca]

If I'm understanding yes you are correct. I have the same filter, I removed the filter cartridge from the plastic frame, put the frame into its slot & stuffed the sponge between the frame & filter housing towards the tank so the water still flows from behind the sponge.

[katmandew]

you put the sponge in the back slot where the plastic thingy is? and what about the slot that holds the carbon filter, just leave that empty?

[shellieca]

Ummm, yes. I have 2 different types of Top Fin filters so I got a little confused.

[katmandew]

ok got it....I swear this is all driving me to drink...tank water that is lol!

[katmandew]

Yikes! I put too much ammonia in and now it's at 8 what to do??

[AyalaCookiejar]

Just do a 50% water change. Make sure you condition it before you replace the water. No big deal :)

[katmandew]

will do thanks :)

[katmandew]

Ammonia back down to 4, I feel like a mad scientist but I have another question. I ordered some things from Amazon yesterday and I guess I wasn't paying attention when I ordered blue bonded filter pad that can be cut to size. I meant to buy aquarium sponge, can I use this in place of sponge in my filter?

[katmandew]

Day 14 for fishless cycle...
ammonia 4.0
nitrite .25
nitrate .25

Am I on track? Is this a problem that the nitrAte is rising?