Cleaning an old tank

[THansenite]

I used to have freshwater fish in my 55 gallon tank. It has been sitting in storage for about 4 years now. I believe the sand was left in it and am sure there is some really nice stuff for me to scrub off the tank by now.

I plan on going and picking up the tank this weekend and bringing it back to my apartment to start on my saltwater endeavor.

How should I go about cleaning up the tank? I know not to use any ammonia based cleaners, so what should I use to clean up the mess and get it ready to run again?

[cowboyswife]

Use vinegar and water.

[fatrip]

second that vinegar and water. remeber dont use an sos pad r and type of spong that has a cleanser on it...

[skeletor121]

As said above, the best stuff to use is a clean sponge or rag with a vinegar/water solution. Make sure you rinse out all of the cleaner so it doesn't leave a residue on the tank. I have used this method numerous times (I tend to buy cheap used tanks and make sure they are clean before using) and this has worked without any problems.

[meco65]

Also be sure not to get any sand under the rag or sponge when cleaning the tank as it will scratch the glass. I found out the hard way with a algae scraper.

[rustybucket145]

pick up a couple of razor blades to use on the grimey glass.

[THansenite]

What ratio should I mix the vinegar to water?

[Piscator]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11144405#post11144405 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by THansenite
What ratio should I mix the vinegar to water?

If you can stand the smell, use 100% vinegar. It wont hurt, and it cleans great. It is also pretty cheap.

After just rinse the whole thing out with water.

Now is a good time to re-seal it, as this is also cheap and easy.

Do you know if the tank was ever treated with copper? Some freshwater tanks have been, and if so, it may be best not to use it.

Best wishes!

[h20poloman2]

white vinegar and those mr. clean magic erasers work wonders