Preparing Used Aquariums for Reuse
With today’s economy being unstable, many people are searching via Web ads, online auctions and garage sales for various items, including used fish tanks. Used fish tanks are often found at yard sales because a family tried the whole “fish thing” and wasn’t successful with maintaining the tank.
Thus, they are trying to get rid of it instead of stashing it away in the garage for years upon years. You can often find great deals on fish tanks and supplies at these types of sales. However, before you jump into setting up your own tank you’ll need to prepare the used fish tanks for reuse.
The main thing you’ll need to do with the used fish tanks before using them is to clean them well. It’s vital you NOT use any soaps, cleaners or detergents for the cleaning.
While these can make the tank look sparkling clear, they can leave tiny residue on the tank which can harm your fish when you add them. In addition, do not use any of these cleaners on the tank’s filter and other equipment either.
To clean the tank well, use white vinegar, baking soda and water. Mix together the baking soda and water to make a paste. Then scrub the paste over the inside and outside of the tank and rinse.
For those pesky mineral deposits the baking soda won’t remove, you can use straight vinegar on them. Simply soak a paper towel in the vinegar and stick the paper towel to the mineral deposit area, leaving it to soak for a few hours. After a while you should be able to wipe the area clean without problems.
To get the best results, be sure to soak all filter parts, decorations, rock and anything else in vinegar or baking soda/water as well.
