You have just chosen an old aquarium from a yard sale or someone have given you an aquarium or you just remembered your old aquarium in the attic or basement and a sudden urge to have some colored lively fish in your living room. Instead of changing for a new one from your pet center, you can repair it on your own saving a lot of money in return and a few extra knowledge of your fish tank. A brand new tank will be ready in just a few hours, if you are willing to undergo the process of cleaning and repairing it by giving some of your time. This is not a hard task and anyone can do with some patience and does not take much of your time. You can finish cleaning and repairing your aquarium in one free evening.
old fish tank
Materials required
The following are the materials required to make your old aquarium shine bright.
1. Razor blade aquarium scraper.
2. Vinegar/hot water and salt/lemon juice.
3. Plastic scrubbing pad.
4. Paper towels.
5. Razor blade single edge.
6. Silicone which are aquarium safe.
7. Masking tape.
Instructions
Here are things you should do while cleaning your aquarium and make it easier for you in the process.
1. Check seals of aquarium: Aquarium seals and glass panes are checked before using. Minor chips detected are filled with sealant. In short, aquarium is resealed before using.
2. Thoroughly clean tank: Debris in glass panes are removed with razor blade aquarium scraper, silicone seals are cleaned with plastic scrubbing pads. Aquarium is cleaned with vinegar or lemon juice or hot water and salt to remove the stubborn algae and calcium clusters deposited.
3. Check for leaks: Fill aquarium with water and check for leaks by drying outside of tank with paper towels. Leaks detected are sealed with silicone seals. Silicone seals are repaired as follows:
a. The damaged silicone is cut with razor blade taking precaution not to cut into joints between two glass panes and removed.
b. Strips of masking tape should be placed on both sides of aquarium's interior edges.
c. Silicone beads are placed along aquarium's interior edges between strips of masking tape and set for 24 to 48 hours.
d. Masking tape is removed from aquarium and tank is filled with water. Check for leaks and if detected start the whole process again.
4. Test bulbs: Test bulbs are replaced, if needed. Use plant daylight bulb which is more cheaper than those at the pet shop. If the bulb does not turn on after replacing then check the starter.
5. Test air pumps: Air pumps should be tested and if not working buy a new one or buy a repair kit for half the price of the pump. For aquarium with power filter, remove impeller for cleaning. Clean the slime and gunk off impeller magnets to improve the efficiency of the unit. If the impeller magnet is very dirty then soak in vinegar or lemon juice. Use same technique for cleaning power heads for filter units.
6. Cleaning gravels: If your aquarium comes from a trusted source or has been successful in the past then no need to wash gravel as it may contain beneficial bacteria which helps to mature tank quickly. If your aquarium comes from a stranger or yard, then rise in hot water again and again.
Some commonly asked questions
1. How to get rid of crusted salt in hood and aquarium?Ans. To get rid of crusted salt in hood and aquarium, use vinegar because it is an excellent cleaner and your old aquarium can shine like new.
2. Why does not light strip works after replacing?
Ans. If light strips does not work after replacing then check your starter.
3. Can I use plastic scrubber from any store?
Ans. Plastic scrubber from store may contain chemicals harmful to the fish. Use scrubber available at pet stores.
4. Can silicone meant for bathrooms be used in aquariums?
Ans. Silicone meant for bathrooms contains additives which are deadly for fish. Use GE brand clear silicone only. Though costly, it adheres better and dries stronger than cheaper ones.
Some tips
1. For aquariums from yard, ask them to fill tank in there lawn so that you are sure it does not leak and explode in your house.
2. Seal tanks properly.
3. Fix pumps and filtration materials with household plumbing materials.
4. Try fitting things together by yourself. If you fail, take help from internet.
5. Take time to choose, do not buy the first one you saw.
6. Buy chemicals free silicone only.
Things to watch out for
1. Proper care should be taken while working with razor blades.
2. The sealant used should be aquarium safe as it could contain chemicals toxic for fish.
3. Protect aquarium from other pets in the house.
4. Do not buy silicone labeled for bathroom, as it contains additives deadly for fish.
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