Cleaning a used tank

ExtraHannah

ExtraHannah

Learning as fast as I can!
Dec 6, 2009
139
0
16
Central NC
My Dad's GF just purchased a used 55 gallon glass tank and stand for him for his birthday. It includes the sand that was used for the last 18 months and also came with two Emperor 400 Bio-wheel filters. It was a pretty good deal, but desperately needs a good cleaning. So, I've offered to help clean it up before Dad's birthday. There are some pretty impressive hard water stains and just general dirt and grunge in/on the tank and filters.

So, suggestions on cleaning? I had heard that vinegar helps and is safe? I know I used a blade carefully on one of my tanks that had been unused for a while. I have a set of different sized brushes I had picked up to keep my own filters clean, so those should help.

Anything we should be sure to do or careful not to do? We're having a cleaning party on Friday while Dad is off fishing. LOL

Oh and the bio-wheels are hopefully staying good, hanging in the top of the GF's tank at the moment. The old owner was kind enough to float them in his own upgrade tank until we picked up and then sent them home with us in a baggie of tank water. So, hopefully, that should help speed along Dad's cycle.
 
i always just use dish soap and a good scrubber, vinager works but commercial cleaners are good to like CLR, just be carefull to rinse alot before adding live stock if you use commercial cleaning products
 
I start with vinegar. If that works, great. CLR is a good option, but I'd only use it for the tough stuff. Good luck on your project! I hope it turns out well.
 
Thanks guys! Just wanted to see if I was overlooking anything. I think we'll likely stick with the vinegar. No matter how much we rinsed, I think I'd be paranoid using a cleaning product. I'd be sure we wouldn't get it all out and would give my Dad a "tank of death". LOL So, hopefully, the vinegar will do the trick.
 
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