I need some filtration advice from an experienced aquarist

[DriftingNemo]

I usually have to replace mine every 2-4 weeks and I wash them out and rinse the canister container every water change. Just keep up with the maintenance and it will serve you well.

 

I just don't want to disassemble the canister each week (I do weekly water changes) because I'm afraid of breaking something. I use silicone lubricant on the o-ring every time I take the filter head off. I'll probably end up changing the filter pads once every 2 weeks.