Aquarium heater melted in mixing container

[Piker]

So when mixing salt for one of my tanks I noticed a terrible smell, and smoke coming from the container (a 30g brute trash can with a return and heater inside).

I immediately unplugged both the heater and pump, and noticed discoloration and a dark film on my heater. It was an ehiem jager 200 or 300 watt. I obviously dumped the water, it smelled like burnt plastic.

Today I was getting ready to use it again, I sprayed it and cleaned it with a magic erasor, and then vinegar, and then bleach. I can not get the smell of burnt plastic out. I'm wondering if anyone might have experience with this, or know if it's worth continuing to use this for mixing or if I should get another to be safe.

Thanks,

 

[Clown2020]

I wouldn’t risk it, if it’s giving off an Oder I would be concerned about what it’s potentially leeching into the water, also although it may still seem sturdy you don’t know how much damage was done to the tub so would be at a Higher risk of it randomly failing and flooding.

 

[attiland]

+1 for ditching the container

 

[Piker]

Grabbed a new one, I appreciate the replies. I'm not sure why I asked I don't think I could have used it again. Thanks for the responses guys.