Fluval Filter Polishing Pads

[Maree]

Do these pads take the place of a prefilter? It says to replace every 2-3 months. If yes is it better to just put a prefilter over the intake hose to save wear on the filter?

[yukoandk]

Polishing filters are typically used as the last stage of mechanical filtration--it's the last layer inside the canister to filter out fine particles to "polish" the water or give the water clear look. Prefilters catch larger debris and particles before they enter the canister to help prevent excess buildup or clogging inside. I've found that with goldfish they all get mucky and gunky after a month or two anyway you put them. I open my canisters every 2 months to rinse out the coarser sponge type of filters and media rocks, and I just replace the finer polishing pads at the same time.