Canister Filters and Nitrite Factories

[q]

I have heard that these can start producing high levels of nitrite and I was wondering why and how to prevent it.

 

[burnnspy]

They actually produce nitrates. Canisters usually contain some kind of filter floss media or bio-media, this media catches waste that is converted to nitrates by bacteria that rapid grows on the surface of the media in use. Because canister are not cleaned every 2-3days they become nitrate producers.
If you take the time and expense of cleaning it daily then nitrate production will not occur because waste and bacteria will not have time to become established.
BurnNSpy

 

[q]

I thought the point was to establish a good bacteria culture within the media. So how do you clean the nitrate out without harming the bacteria.

 

[captained]

I use a cannister filter with just a sponge and occasionally carbon- no bio-media, and I run very low to zero nitrates.
FYI, I have 70lbs LR and 40lbs LS for natural filtration, and a UV sterilizer.

 

[burnnspy]

Plato, LS and LR is where your bacteria needs to grow, hence there is no need for a canister. LR and LS has the added benefit of naturally removing nitrates from the tank water, canister filters cannot reduce nitrates.
BurnNSpy

 

[q]

Thanks for the info
I have seen the light.