Suggestions for cleaning a large tank and equipment.

SJ Blane · Aug 17, 2020

Good morning! I am shutting down my 240 gal. tank and am trying to find a cost-effective way to clean the tank and equipment and remove coralline algae from the back wall. Since the tank will be sitting empty in my basement until I sell it, I want it to be odor free. I was planning to fill it with tap water, toss the skimmer, pumps and other equipment in the tank, mix in citric acid and let it soak overnight. Would the citric acid have any negative impact on the silicone? Any ideas you have would be appreciated. Thanks!

nezw0001 · Aug 17, 2020

The citric should not affect the silicone as long as you don't go crazy low on lowering the PH with citric.

vetteguy53081 · Aug 17, 2020

I am more comfortable filling it in a low light room and adding vinegar and let it sit 48 hours and then scrub walls starting with a magnet cleaner with blade assuming its glass.
Edge of an old credit card will also work

JumboShrimp · Aug 17, 2020

Try a 'search' here on R2R for Bar Keepers Friend available at Walmart, etc. Makes a paste along the lines of high strength vinegar. Use a little elbow grease and rinse it off well, and it won't hurt a thing.

SJ Blane · Aug 17, 2020

Thanks for all of the feedback! I use Barkeeper's Friend all the time in my kitchen to scrub pots and pans but never thoug by of using it to scrub a tank. Great idea!

SJ Blane · Aug 17, 2020

vetteguy53081 said:
I am more comfortable filling it in a low light room and adding vinegar and let it sit 48 hours and then scrub walls starting with a magnet cleaner with blade assuming its glass.
Edge of an old credit card will also work

I thought about using 45% vinegar since it would be very diluted in a 240 gal. tank. What is the reason for the low light?