Vacuum Suction Cups

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Bobby24

AC Members
May 25, 2012
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Has anyone used Vaseline/petroleum jelly to lubricate vacuum cups so that they adhere better to your glass under water?

Reason for asking is will it affect the water chemistry in any way?
 
I would replace the suction cups before I'd try any kind of lubricant in the tank ... no idea if it would be safe or not.

Most of the time, dunking the suction cup first and/or sticking it to the glass underwater will do the trick. Make sure 100% of it is being pressed against glass, not silicone. (I've been frustrated before only to realize ... operator error, doh!)
 
Thanks Deborah, That is what I do normally, but it just that I got a few brand new stubborn ones that pop after 2 - 3 days and they are really making me mad. I hate having to put my hands into the tank all the time to pick them up.
 
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Try softening them up in very hot water for a few minutes, then stick them to the glass.
 
I heard that a Silicone based gel should be used, however I cannot get my hands on any other then ones for medical use. skin care :)
 
Don't use vaseline! I doubt it would be a problem for the fish, but it will cause rubber (your suction cups!) to break down much more quickly. Try a silicone product - like the kind you use to seal o rings on canister filters. You should be able to get some at the pet store, or have them order it for you.

This is the kind of stuff you can use - http://www.amazon.com/Silicone-Lubricant-H-O-T-Magnum-Filters/dp/B0002DIDHC

However, I would give the hot water a try first. :) I know the silicone is safe. I have no idea if it will work for your purpose though.
 
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