He eats the maintenance formula from Zoomed every 3 to 4 days and he usually finishes all but a few small pellets. When I have to add water I use the safe water additive to neutralize the chlorine so it doesn't kill the good bacteria. I've had smaller filters that have had less smell but I changed to a larger one because the smaller one couldn't break up the solid waste as well and I had to change the media every week. I have invested a lot of money in trying to improve my pets living conditions and our comfort but I seem to be going in the wrong direction with every step. My family has about had it and I am the only one that takes care of him now. I've had Water dragons, gerbils, mice, hamsters, dogs, cats, birds and fish. I managed to care for them all but this time I feel at a complete loss as to how to take care of 1 little turtle.