cleaning my filter

[i likefish]

i have a 30 gal with a penguin 330 hang of the back filter.It is really dirty(the whole thing not the filter cartridges).Would it be a good idea to take it off and clean the inside(scrub it).Please help

 

[froznfinn]

I may be wrong but I think filters can be a source of nitrate if left to built up crud..since i do a 0.25% water change every 2 weeks it's been recommended to clean the filters with the first water change and to replace the filters once a month.. leave your bio-wheel alone..since it holds a collection of bacteria necessary for the cycle..as far as the actual filter device..sure,clean it with each water change use only hot water no soaps etc..

 

[i likefish]

but the inside is full of crud and im not getting good flow i replace the cartridges
what should i do????

 

[froznfinn]

clean out the crud..at keast once monthly