Cleaning up a used tank.

[Formula_JP]

Just got my 150g acrylic tank i've been waiting to pick up for a while. I'm new to the community so please bare with me and point me in the right direction when needed

So now that i have the tank that was previously setup for over a year, i need to clean it. Recommendations and suggestions for cleaning solvents and proper cleaning clothes or brushes so not to scratch the tank? There are some parts that have dried algea i guess it is (its green) that i'd like to clear off before i start it up again.

Lastly, i need ideas or suggestions for clearing up some small surface scratches, i know alot wont come out but i'd like to work on the clearity of the tank.

Thanks in advance. And i'm excited to become more a part of the community.

 

[scadarette]

Do a search, there are many threads on this site that r helpful.....

 

[fshfanatic]

vinager works very well.

 

[nolapete]

solvents in the aquarium = no

as has been said distilled white vinegar works well for cleaning. The stronger the better, but you can cut it with water.

There are kits to polish out minor scratches. It takes a lot of elbow grease to do though. You have to work from coarse to extremely fine sanding in steps.

 

[Dr Joe]

Well, first

Use a soft cloth and soak the area with vinegar (full strength), rub gently. If it doesn't come off right away keep soaking and repeat.

Unless you have major scratches you'll just be using several grades of polishing compounds and not sand paper.

Here's that thread ... http://www.monsterfishkeepers.com/forums/showthread.php?t=47496
He put alot of work in this and it came out nice. It's a slow process but worth it. Some light scratches will disappear when you ad water too.

Dr Joe

.

 

[Formula_JP]

thanks for all the responses. i have a few months before the tank will be setup so i've got plenty of time to work on it, which i def. plan on doing.

i've taken note to how to restore an acrylic tank, and the first thing that came to mind is using SAND PAPER on a tank like that??? i understand the wet sanding idea so i'll just have to see what works.