Cleaning HOB Filter Cartridge

[Devynb1091]

So, I previously posted about how I had a cloudiness problem in my tank. Well, because I'm so new to this I missed the most obvious step. After removing my filter cartridge from my HOB filter I found that it was covered with fine brown dirt from the sand.

My question is, how do I clean it? I tried pouring aquarium water over it but that did not work. I don't have the money to buy one filter per week until the dust floating around is cleared out. Is there a way for me to add extra mechanical filtration pre filter cartridge? Should I start all over and re-clean the sand? What's confusing is if I stir the sand up the tank gets no cloudier. I'm hoping once all the fine stuff is removed it will be gone for good.

Any help is greatly appreciated

-Devyn

 

[EJgraydon]

Did you look on the makers website for prefilter mechanical filters? Mine came with one which saves me from having to clean my filter. If not, a gentleman at the petshop offered some advice (I hope) that may help. Try taking the flat, thin cellulose (like the link below) and rubber band it around the filter intake (assuming your using a cartridge filter) so that it catches dirt and larger particulates. It should be easier to clean, and it will also slow the water movement in your tank. Like I said, this was the petshop employees suggestion so if everyone else shoots it down, don't blame me

Thin cleelulose sponges like these:
http://www.okokchina.com/Files/uppic17/cellulose%20sponge102.jpg
You ca usually find them in dollar stores for lik 10 for 2 dollars (US anyway)