The Aqua One 1c Carbon Cartridge is a disposable filter cartridge for use in the Aqua One AquaStyle(AR) 380 and Aqua One AquaMode 600 aquariums .  The 1c is also used in all Aqua One Aqua Nano set ups, the Betta Mono, Duo and Trio models and the Xpression Range of aquariums. .Three packs of two are supplied in this triple pack and a cartridge should be removed and disgarded when blocked with fish waste and debris. This will usually be every four to six weeks. The Polymer ‘wool’ layer traps debris while the activated carbon removes odours and clarifies the water.

The Aqua One 1c Carbon Cartridge: In Detail

Fifteen years ago we were one of the very first dealers in the UK to take up Aqua One products and one of the things that captured our interest in the brand was the excellent trickle filtration fitted to even small aquariums such as the AquaStyle(AR)126 and the AquaStyle(AR)380. Aqua One had used something new: multi layer filtration featuring a carbon and Polymer ‘wool ‘cartridge: the 1c Carbon Cartridge was born.

Times marches on and though we are delighted to serve those customers who still own an Aquastyle(AR)380, the 1c has long since gone on to find a new home in the AquaNano range, The Aqua Mode 600, the Xpression range and, of course, the brand new Betta range.

What makes the Aqua One 1c Carbon Cartridge so good then?

That’s an easy question to answer: its BIG.  The Aqua One 1c carbon cartridge has a massive surface area covered in fine polymer fibre which is brilliant at trapping solid waste, the clear water then travels over the activated carbon granules where colourants, acids and odours are removed, Leaving the water in perfect condition for the next stage: biological filtration.

What else does the Aqua One 1c Carbon Cartridge do?

Well, in addition to filtering solid waste and adsorbing other dissolved waste products from the water the 1c carbon cartridge has been designed to spread and even out water flow.  Water will always take the easiest path through a filter and this often results in only a small proportion of the filter media being used which is inefficient. Remember that better, harder working filtration means less aquarium maintenance for you.  This is why the  Aqua One 1c carbon cartridge has a unique grid design at the bottom  which spreads and redistributes the water that flows through it making sure that successive filter media is used to maximum advantage.

My friend says I don’t need these fancy filter carbon cartridges!

That would depend on what kind of result you are looking for. If saving money is your absolute top priority and NOT a great looking, crystal clear aquarium filled with healthy fish then you could indeed skip decent filtration. But, seriously, if you are looking for good, consistent, low hassle results with an aquarium to be proud of we strongly suggest that Aqua One and Aqua One Store have a pretty good idea of what works well.  A few pounds spent on a fresh, brand new 1c carbon cartridge will pay you back, again and again.

Ok, so how often do I need to change the Aqua One 1c Carbon Cartridge in my set up?

Based on fifteen years experience with all things Aqua One we suggest that you change your 1c carbon cartridge every month in generously stocked aquariums and once every six weeks  in lightly stocked set ups. Activated carbon has a limited effective life and cannot be regenerated by rinsing out: when it’s used once it’s used up so do change it.   Don’t forget that the cartridges are supplied in packs of two and that Aqua One Store has the lowest prices and the cheapest postage around. Most customers choose our money saving multi packs and save even more.

Can I recycle the Aqua One 1c Cartridge?

Of course you can. – Cut the dirty filter wool layer off and place this and the used carbon pieces in your black bin. The plastic frame should be rinsed and then safely placed in your orange topped bin with your other plastic recyclables.