Major cleaning next weekend... Need some input

[dnorton1978]

I wanted to get some advice as to if and how you guys clean your fuge. The drain side has a fine layer of dirt or something. I wanted to clean it without completely draining the fuge. Because if gravity my usual methods will not work. Any suggestions?

Next I am going to do the 5 gallon bucket trick with vinegar for my skimmer and pumps. What is the normal time frame to leave return pumps and stuff in that mix?

Lastly, I am going to clean my UV. I assume i would run it in the same water/vinegar mix? Or just take apart and clean the old fashion way?

Really lastly, how much vinegar to water should I use?

Thanks everyone in advance..

 

[trido]

Use your shop vac to clean your sump. I just use a few glugs ( technical term for 1/2 cup)of vinegar in a couple gallons of water. Your tank is at an age that I be surprised if you would need much more that a quick bristle brush cleaning for any of your pumps and UV. JMO

 

[blackcloudmedia]

What are you having to remove? Like algae? or worse 8O I dont use a fuge so I dunno.

 

[Anonymous]

I usually take my pumps apart and soak the impellers and all their parts in vinegar for a few hours and use a toothbrush to make sure they are clean.

 

[bleedingthought]

Use your shop vac to clean your sump.

I've never thought to do that. Good call!

 

[dnorton1978]

Thanks guys for the info. The tank has been set up since the end of September and I just felt the need to do some cleaning before it got to out of hand. Shop vac idea is awesome.

Blackcloud I just have a thin layer of dirt looking stuff to pull out in the Fuge. I use a filter sock, so I am not sure where it actually comes from. Unless it settles when I clean the sock.

Just trying to be proactive and keep good maint. I still religiously do my bi weekly water changes of 20 - 25 gallons.