Any bad affect if sponge filter not washed?

[killer007]

um...just this come to my mind...

i am using sponge filters for my shrimp tank right now. I am just wondering if I don't wash the sponge, it is not good for the aquarium right?
cuz the bio filter won't work in full capacity?

cuz i saw HMF (power head behind the sponge sheet), its not possible to take the sheet out after the soil are in place, so there wont' be time that the sponge sheet can be wash too...or can it be washed?

Thanks

[countcoco]

The HMF is different from a standard sponge filter. HMF pads only need to be washed every 12-18 months. Regular sponge filters need to be cleaned periodically, as they will clog and will filter water less efficiently.

[killer007]

ah...that what i was thinking
thanks
I will try that out

[Big Dog]

I clean my sponges every few weeks.