Well a mini cycle will just happen if it needs too. The Ammonia with no Nitrates or Nitrites lead me to think you will get a mini cycle.
If you see one pod then you are not seeing the other 10 hidden away. As long as you see a couple after lights out I would not bother putting in more.
1. Change the bulb if you suspect it is deteroriated and throwing yellow light which might explain the algae issue.
2. Make sure the carbon/floss of the HOB are not rotting.
3. Look for "dead spots" areas of low flow where waste will sit and rot, aim your PH there to keep things stirred up.
4. Get a better water source.
5. Run fresh carbon if you have it.
I think that would be a good start.
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