Magnetic algae scrapers?

Rocketman

Detroit; proud of it.
Oct 24, 2002
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Detroit, MI
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Reid
Lately, my 45 tank has had quite a bit of trouble with algae. i have getting my hands all wet and stuff, so I was wondering - do those magnetic algae scrapers really work, or is it one big scam? Maybe someone here knows what I'm talking about, and can help me find a cheap on from bigals.
 
I have one that I use on my 150g. I use it once a week or so. I think it works really good. It's called the "Mag-Float". The outside magnet has felt that is against the glass. The inside magnet has bristles on it to softly scrub the glass. IMHO If you have an arcrlic (sp?) tank, I would not use it.
 
We use the magna scrapers in all our tanks. I've only had a problem when something gets between the scraper and the tank, so won't use it on algae that's at the very bottom of the tank, near the substrate. Otherwise, they work great. They don't last forever, and you have to let them dry separately (not stuck together), and clean them regularly.
 
I like 'em, too. The Mag Float things work well. Just make sure you get one sized appropriately for your tank. If you get one of the big jobbies and try to use it on a 10 gallon tank, the magnet will be too strong for that thickness of glass and you'll have a hard time moving it.

Jim
 
FWIW:

I made one myself with a piece a scotchbrite, a piece of paper towel, and a my own magnets. Of course it is a challenge to fond a magnet strong enough these days. . .

Dan
 
Thanks. Does anyone know what the thickness of glass on a 45-60 tanks would be?
 
my friend has one and it works great. i'm go to get one soon. but i have seen ones with felt on both sides for acrilic tanks(i think out-of-all-places PETCO)
 
I went to Bigals and they have theirs on sale for $18.99 and that was their smallest one. It worked well on their tank on display.

I went to Wal Mart later and found the same size, different brand magnet cleaner for $6.89.

Your choice!
 
Magnets

I have one that came with my tank. One magnet is green, the other black and are probably really old. They did scratch my tank up even though the tank is glass. If anyone knows how to work it so it doesnt scratch the glass, can you help.
Thanks
 
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