How long could I have brass in the tank?

[Scribe]

So I need a new impeller for my mag pump. I looked at a big box store for a temp fix, until the replacement can get here. I found a brass rod, that I think will work. I'm just wondering if this will be safe in the tank temporarily, until the part gets here, hopefully within a week. I was thinking I could spray paint it to hopefully lessen the exposure of the metal to the tank. Don't know if I'm asking for trouble doing this or not. Thoughts?

 

[ETORRES477]

Definitely asking for trouble, copper will leach out of the brass. I wouldn't even think about It. May be expensive, but u may have to bite bullet and buy a fully functioning pump. Maybe you can get by with keeping the temp right and leaving the wavemakers on to keep circulation going. But that may only buy you a day or 2 tops. But seriously, stay away from brass and copper if you have or ever plan on having a reef set-up.

 

[Xingu]

I wouldn't risk it. I have spare pumps for all of my tanks, just in case I break another shaft. It was a lesson learned early in my 150 build. Luck for me, I was just starting the tank up when it broke and showed me what could happen on a fully established system. As a temporary fix, a smaller pump could be used, but you would be better off with the same sized pump.

 

[davocean]

I too would freak on anything copper based placed in tank, can you borrow something or just run PH's or something until replacement part comes?

 

[mike007]

If you are using ro water It will react with the brass and may create problems.

 

[Scribe]

I thought that was the case. Just wanted to check to see if it was an option. I ordered a replacement impeller, and am about to order a pump as well, so I don't have to deal with this again. Hopefully the two wave makers will do. The trick until the new impeller comes. I've moved the heater into the tank, but won't be skimming I guess until the replacement comes. I'm going to try to do a water change every other day until the replacement part comes. Fingers crossed that's enough. Thanks for confirming what I thought everyone. I really appreciate it.

 

[RafasReef]

good choice on holding off