Canister filter during power outage

[Nana Finopolis]

I am so glad I invested in the USB filters from aquarium co-op and sponge filters. During this power outage my fish are all comfy with their filtration and our wood stove is keeping the tanks nice and warm. 

But, I’m wondering how long the bacteria in my canister filters will survive. It’s been over 12 hrs. I’m thinking maybe I should take all the media and sponges out and just set them in the tank. Might be too late already?

I think I’ll unplug them so the don’t start when the power comes back on. I’m worried the water in the canisters could be toxic or something for them. Is that a thing?  I’ve never been out of power this long before.  Good time to get rid of those canisters, I think I’m almost ready just to go with all sponge filters then I don’t have to worry.

[CT_]

You could do your normal cleaning routine on them and then put them in the tank if you're worried.  I think its more likely that some of the bacterial die or go dormant when just sitting in the canister.  There's not enough time for "scary" anaerobes to crop up and start making toxic byproducts. 

[Nana Finopolis]

Wouldn't you know, I just cleaned them and did a water change two days ago. That's okay I can do it again.

[gardenman]

You can pump the siphon starter on them a few times from time to time to circulate some fresh water through them. It won't move a lot of water, but it'll get a little bit moving and that can help keep the bacteria alive. 

[MJV Aquatics]

Yes, unplug it and remove any bio-media and put in the aquarium. clean the canister and sponges before refilling and restarting when the power comes back on.