Review on Zoo Med Carbon Bag for 501 Turtle Filter: Enhance Water Filtration with Carbon Media by Lindsay Law

I use Zoo Med and Fluval filter bags in the 501. Fluval is cheaper due to the use of bulky (scrap) chips found in other processing like high tech municipal Substances for treatment plants are left over from the filter bags. The processed granules in the Zoo Med sachet are actually a high-end product and the sachet helps facilitate water flow. Mesh bags like Fluval and those you can buy and fill yourself often have spots that clog quickly. I don't know why Zoo Med packs don't work for some people. I have a turtle in a 20 gallon tank and the 501 keeps it clean, but I also do partial water changes and use other water conditioners regularly. Here are some FAQs from the Zoo Med website for those who might find them useful. (No, I am not affiliated with Zoo Med but I have relied on their products, particularly UVB fluorescent lights, to care for a variety of reptiles and amphibians for many years.) Q: Does the carbon level go up or down? Ceramic material in the filter chamber? A: The charcoal bag must be below the ceramic tray. Q: How often should I change the charcoal? A: Activated carbon should be replaced once a month. Q: How often should I change the ceramic filter. A: The ceramic support should only be changed if it is impeding the flow of water. It can be washed every month. Q: How often should the sponges be changed? A: Sponges can be washed monthly but should only be changed when they cannot be cleaned or are beginning to break down. Q: What is the maximum gallon per hour? A: The 501 filter runs at about 79 gallons per hour. Q: How do I complete this filter? A: Make sure the canister is completely filled with water and that the filler cap is in place. before connecting the filter. Q: What is the ceramic medium for? A: The ceramic medium provides a surface for beneficial bacteria to grow. These bacteria help trap other bacteria and break down waste that got into the filter. Q: Why does this filtering process appear to be reversed? How often should I clean the filter? A: For a turtle, once a month is usually sufficient. If you have more animals, you may need to clean it more often.