Rix06

For the cf1200 you turn it off at the wall and then turn the taps off. Unlatch the top off the filter and then your free to access the trays. I usually rinse the sponges out with aquarium water because the water supply to my house is heavily chlorinated which would give the bacteria a bit of grief. I don't touch the ceramic noodles or bio balls. All you should be trying to achieve is getting better flow through the filter. When you are done put the top back on making sure the riser tube and gaskets are lined up. Turn the taps back on and because the siphon on the inlet tube didnt break the filter will self prime and your all done after flicking the switch at the wall. Never done a sunsun

I would be returning it as you cant even change the temperature on it.

Keep the air pump and put it on a timer for when the lights are off.