The Aqua One 3c Carbon Cartridge is a disposable filter cartridge for use in the AquaStyle (AR) 620, AquaStyle (AR) 620T and AquaMode 900 aquariums. The 3c cartridges form the top layer of the trickle filter. A pack of two 3c cartridges is supplied (one large and one small for one full filter change) and the carbon cartridges 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. An essential part of the Aqua One trickle-filter system.

We’ve tried substitutes and we’ve tried other filtration methods but noting comes close the the original 3c cartridge from Aqua One. Please see our Multi cartridge packs for even lower prices!

The Aqua One 3c Carbon Cartridge

In the beginning…

When Aqua One first came to the UK ten years ago one of the very first products they introduced was the AR620 aquarium which they later renamed the Aqua Style 620 (though the aquarium itself hasn’t changed at all in ten years of production)

The AquaStyle 620 included a unique overhead trickle filter that was to become one of Aqua One’s trademark features. The 620 trickle filter features several layers of filter media including the 3S black sponge set and Aqua One’s Bio Noodles. However it is the 3c Carbon cartridges that have proved to be the most important and effective part of the Aqua Ones trickle filter.

How is the Aqua One 3c made?

The Aqua One 3c Carbon and polywool filter cartridge set comprises three components: a bonded polymer wool layer that traps and binds solid waste matter, a quantity of pelletized activated carbon and a perforated plastic tray. The tray acts to retain the filter media components and also helps the even distribution of water through the following filter media.

How does the Aqua One 3c work?

As the water from the aquarium exits the spray bar and hits the surface of the 3c carbon cartridge the polymer wool layer gets to work straight away trapping solid waste in its interlocking fibres. Thus free of solid waste and debris the water then encounters the activated carbon layer where odour causing substances, colourants and chemical contaminants are removed. Then the water is spread out in the bottom of the 3c tray and continues an even flow down over the biological filter media where toxic ammonia and nitrite are processed.

How Long Does the Aqua One 3c Last?

The 3c Carbon Cartridge is the first layer of filtration in an AR (or aquastyle) 620 and as such it works very hard and cannot be expected to last forever. Aqua One suggest a working life of around six weeks which we agree with unless your aquarium is heavily stocked in which case expect around four weeks only. You can also lift the lid of your trickle filter and have a look, is the top surface of the Aqua One 3c mostly brown with waste? is the water pooling on the surface rather than flowing quickly through it on its way to the 3s sponge layer and the Aqua One Bionoodles? If so, its time for a change.

Can I rinse my Aqua One 3c filter Cartridge under the tap?

We’ve lost count of the amount of customers this has gone wrong for. The cartridges are designed for a single use and you cannot unblock fine polymer wool or regenerate activated carbon by rinsing. The cartridge will block again really quickly which can lead to the filter overflowing and the carbon will not be working at all second time round which really puts your fish at risk.

Where is the cheapest place to buy Aqua One 3c Carbon cartridges?

Well…. We hesitate to brag but that’s us! Here at Aqua One Parts we not only offer a great deal on all Aqua One carbon cartridges but we also have the best multipack deals around and the lowest cost postage in the industry. You wont get a better deal on Aqua One 3c cartridges than you will from us. We would really appreciate your business. Do contact us if we can help in any way and remember that telephone orders are welcomed by our experienced and friendly staff. You will always find you are speaking to a fellow fish keeping enthusiast.