Setting up tank in freezing weather?

[weldon]

I'm almost finished building my new tank stand. I'd like to set it up in the garage and fill the tank with water to make sure that it's stable and that the tank doesn't leak before moving it into the living room.

The problem has been that we have had a month of freezing temperatures here in Colorado. I haven't even wanted to go into the garage to work on the stand in the evening. Will it be OK to set up the tank when the temperature will dip into the teens overnight?

[Rbishop]

Maybe add a bubbler and power head to keep the water moving..?

[weldon]

Good idea. I've got a submersible power head that I could put in there.

Any other thoughts from anyone about stress to the seams of the tank?

[jm1212]

put the heater in the tank?

[wataugachicken]

the ice would have to freeze solid and thick in order to stress the tank. it won't be a problem overnight. if you start with cold water and then slowly raise the temp as you fill the tank so the water ends up a little warm, it will be even less of a problem. just don't add hot water to it right away.

[THE V]

Buy a heater. Fill the tank up cold and set the heater for around 45F. Getting the filter going full speed will help immensely if not a bubble wand can help with circulation.

[mountain_webste]

Put a space heater in the garage, but not directly on the tank, to keep the ambient temp up a bit too

[Marinemom]

I agree. Put a heater in the tank and your problem will be pretty much solved.

Marinemom

[The Zigman]

birdbath heater...