If you have a SPS tank you should buy a high sensitivity test kit like the D-D Merck kit (~$80), if you don't have a SPS dominated tank then a Salifert or Elos kit will do. If you have a SPS tank you should change the media when it creeps above 0.08 ppm. If using Salifert or Elos then the media should be changed when it shows up on the kit even as a trace.
When to change the media is a bit of a trial as there is no set time. It depends how much media you have used in relation to the volume of water, how much phosphate is already in that volume of water, how much phosphate is being added to that volume of water daily, and how much phosphate is being leached into that volume of water. Test kits and visuals are your best bet. If you see an increase in film algae it is time to change the media. Keep track how long you go between, how much you use, and what brand so you can set yourself a rough schedule.
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~ Mindy
SPS fanatic.
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