Will changing my filter Uncycle the tank?

[Zifoof]

I read that that the beneficial bacteria live inside the filter cartrages, and I need to change my filter soon, so I am wondering if this will uncycle my tank? Also, I was told to change my filter every 4 weeks, is this true?

Thank you!

[Abby]

i think you misunderstood who ever told you that, maybe they meant to clean it every 4 weeks
CHANGING a filters MEDIA (insides) will uncycle your tank

[Zifoof]

I see, so how should I go about cleaning it?

[scootshoot]

While the manufacturers filter packaging will state to replace your media every month or so, it's done to ensure sales. Don't replace it until it's basically falling apart. If you wish to clean and reuse it, just place some tank water in a little container and rinse the grime off the media by rubbing your hand along the sides to take the gunk off and place it back in your filter.

The flow of your filter water is a good indication, if the output flow is coming to a crawl it means your media is starting to clog....

[turtle10]

Scootshoot is correct. And it must be tank water because if you just use tap the chlorine will kill the bacteria.

[vaygirl]

I agree with above, you don't have to change it til it's falling apart. I've had the same filter cartridge in Kilo's tank for a year. My 16 gallon, I just swish the sponge in my bucket of dirty tank water when I'm doing water changes.

[Zifoof]

Oh ok, well that makes a lot of sense about them wanting to get sales. I am glad I asked here first! Thank you for all the help guys!