Cleaning the back glass - any tools?

[SwampFins]

So I've been having a heck of a time trying to clean my back glass panel in my tank as there are certain spots I just cant reach and I was wondering if anyone had any tips or tools to make this easier.

I have some stubborn algae spots that have to be manhandled haha.

The tank is a 6ft long and is against the wall with a paper background so magnets are a no go.

 

[LBDave]

https://www.amazon.com/NICREW-Aquar...dle+aquarium&qid=1560876567&s=gateway&sr=8-24

Maybe something like this. I have something similar but this has a corner cleaner. BTW I am now more careful with my magnet. Trying to not hit the corners too much. Will harm the sealant. Another reason why acrylic tanks may be better.

 

[duanes]

I have one like LBDave posted, works pretty good, but for stubborn stuff I use the El Cheapo DIY version above, I have a couple set at different angles, on different diameter PVC depending on pressure needed.
But I also am not averse to algae, and its positive effect on reducing nitrate, so often am too lazy to bother with the back panel.

 

[LBDave]

I agree. I have quit doing the back panel. At least on the old one. The new one will be a different story.

 

[SwampFins]

Dang that tool looks great but it's a tad pricey.

I like duanes diy solution, might give it a go tonight as I have all the parts already!

I've never bothered with my back panels before but I'll admit I've been obsessing over this tank lately so I'm trying to keep it as clean as I can. That darn OCD kicking in lol

 

[SwampFins]

Also that tool looks just like one of those swiffer things.

I wonder if I can mod a dollar store one with a green scrubber sponge.. hmmm

 

[duanes]

Dang that tool looks great but it's a tad pricey.

I like duanes diy solution, might give it a go tonight as I have all the parts already!

I've never bothered with my back panels before but I'll admit I've been obsessing over this tank lately so I'm trying to keep it as clean as I can. That darn OCD kicking in lol

If you try this at home, be careful, or you'll put your eye out.

 

[pacu mom]

I use a car wash brush. Very soft bristles with a rubber bumpercan only clean and not harm acrylic.

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[islandguy11]

For deeper tanks I just use a long piece of pvc with a scotch pad squished into one end, works just fine.

If you want to keep away the brown algae you need to install a UV sterilizer. After about a month of scraping (so the diatoms get into the water column where the UV can zap them), your brown algae problem should be largely gone (unless one is way overfeeding).

 

[LBDave]

I have a UV sterilizer and found it limited on controlling algae or diatoms. Not saying I am an expert or have an adequately sized UV.
I have plants and that helps with the algae a bit but I still clean the glass at times. I honestly think that the diatoms are more related to phosphates. In my case I think the gravel had phosphates? Anyway, the tank seemed to find it's balance in time.
The UV and even phosphate filtration helped a little but time basically resolved it about 95%.