cleaning a used tank

[Drinkmorewater]

The problem: I have a used glass tank that had a ton of algae (from not being taken care of) and is just generally gross

The question: If I'm going to break it down and "clean" it up before putting it back into service, what can I use to really clean it? Is white vinegar acceptable? What are my options for really scrubbing the heck out of it and not leaving any residual effects on the reef when i fill it back up?

Thanks for your responses!

 

[ZANYMASTER]

Vinegar is good and a good scraper and some elbow grease.

 

[wonderballz]

ya, vinegar and either a new razor blade or a credit card. I soaked paper towels in vinegar and water, and layed it on the caked on coralline over night and scraped it the next day. It worked pretty well.

 

[ClosetFishGeek]

Bolth above posts are good advice. I put the vinegar in a spray bottle(spray on wait 15 minutes and get scraping) and get to work imediately becouse I have no patience....:splitspin ..I like using plastic scrapers=less chance of gashing yourself and your tank...:tongue1:

 

[beerfish]

.I like using plastic scrapers=less chance of gashing yourself and your tank...:tongue1:

No sense of adventure...

Vinegar and a razor blade for me.

Bear in mind however, that saltwater, vinegar, and a razor blade cut make for some colorful language and the potential for a stepped on dog / cat tail. :shhh:

 

[beachorama]

Also heard OxyClean is good for cleaning used tanks and equipment.

Believe it's non-toxic and works well.

Will be using it on my next tank soon.

:tub:

 

[ClosetFishGeek]

No sense of adventure...

Vinegar and a razor blade for me.

Bear in mind however, that saltwater, vinegar, and a razor blade cut make for some colorful language and the potential for a stepped on dog / cat tail. :shhh:

lol.....:tongue1: