carbon life/ zooanthid film

[nemofan087]

I have a 2 part question, 1) carbon, as well all know, provides a method of filtering for our aquatic systems . Our manufacturers tell us every 2 to 3 weeks to change these filters out. but, whats the consequence of taking these filters,(penguin filter cartridges for example), and cleaning them under tap water? shorten life span of filter? does it kill the carbons effectiveness??
2) any refferences to "film" on softies-my zoo's looks like it has a plastic bag in b/n the polyps!! no pics to post sorry,.
Any refferences to sites or info would be appreciated- nemo

[JUNI0R]

Activated carbon adsorbs chemicals out of the water in our aquariums. When you rinse it under tap water it will adsorb chemicals out of the tap water (A Brita filter is nothing but powdered activated carbon). If you want to rinse your carbon for some reason I would suggest rinsing it with RO or RO/DI.

[Randy Holmes-Farley]

I rinse my carbon before use with tap water as there is a lot of dust, and I think the brief exposure does reasonably little that is detrimental. I don't see any reason to rinse used carbon. It won't remove chemicals that are absorbed.