Keeping your biOrb aquarium clean and healthy starts with regular filter maintenance. The filter is the heart of your aquarium’s ecosystem—it clears waste, absorbs toxins, and keeps the water crystal clear. But how often should you change the filter in a biOrb tank?
In this guide, we’ll explain the recommended replacement schedule, what’s included in a biOrb Service Kit, and how to easily swap out the filter to keep your biOrb running at peak performance.
How Often Should You Change a biOrb Filter?
You should change your biOrb filter every 4 to 6 weeks.
This schedule ensures your filter media continues to effectively:
-
Remove physical debris
-
Absorb harmful chemicals like ammonia and nitrates
-
Support beneficial bacteria that keep the water balanced
Delaying filter replacement beyond this timeframe can lead to:
-
Cloudy or discoloured water
-
Algae blooms
-
Poor water flow and oxygenation
-
Health issues for your fish
🗓️ Pro tip: Set a calendar reminder every 5 weeks to stay on schedule.
What’s in a biOrb Service Kit?
Each biOrb Service Kit includes everything you need for a complete filter change in just minutes:
-
Foam filter cartridge – Traps waste and hosts beneficial bacteria
-
Water optimiser – Helps restore natural water balance
-
Cleaning sachet – Breaks down organic material and boosts clarity
Some value packs, like 3-packs or 6-packs, offer cost savings and are perfect for long-term care.
How to Change a biOrb Filter – Step-by-Step
-
Turn off the air pump and unplug the light unit.
-
Remove the lid and lift out the central bubble tube.
-
Carefully pull out the used filter cartridge and discard it.
-
Rinse the ceramic media in tank water (never tap water!) to retain beneficial bacteria.
-
Insert the new filter cartridge, aligning it with the base.
-
Add the water optimiser and cleaning sachet as instructed.
-
Replace the lid, reconnect the pump, and observe flow
🔄 Always use official biOrb cartridges to ensure proper fit and performance.
How to Know When a Filter Needs Changing
Besides sticking to the 4–6 week guideline, look for these signs:
-
Reduced airflow or weak bubbling
-
Foul or earthy odour
-
Cloudy or green-tinged water
-
Fish acting stressed or lethargic
If you notice any of the above earlier than expected, perform a filter change and partial water change to stabilise your tank.
Can You Rinse and Reuse a biOrb Filter?
No. biOrb filters are not designed to be reused. Rinsing removes trapped particles but also washes away activated carbon and vital components. Always replace the full cartridge for proper filtration.
🧪 Want to preserve beneficial bacteria? Rinse the ceramic media, not the foam cartridge.
Tips for Better biOrb Filter Performance
-
Use biOrb water treatments to boost clarity after filter changes
-
Perform partial water changes (20–30%) every 2–3 weeks
-
Clean the bubble tube and air stone monthly to maintain circulation
-
Avoid overfeeding to reduce filter strain
Conclusion
Regular filter replacement is one of the most important aspects of biOrb aquarium care. By changing your filter every 4–6 weeks and using a genuine biOrb Service Kit, you’ll keep your tank looking beautiful and your aquatic life healthy.
Ready to stock up? Explore 3-packs, 6-packs, and maintenance kits at Charterhouse Aquatics for fast delivery and great value.