Rocks from drainage ditch

[toehead11183]

`Yes but they are rough and have sharp edges. they ones from the ditches have been there a while and are eroded and smooth

 

[Brackishbandit]

I personally would not bake rock cause air pockets can cause explosion, but if you soak in a rubber maid brute can (25$) do 100% water change every day for a week and you should be good. Personally I would buy the rock also if you are using lime stone your ph will be up there.

 

[navygirl76]

i agree with brackishbandit--dont put rocks in the oven! you never know what elements are in it (and what temps they can tolerate) and you do run the risk of rocks popping and/or exploding... then youll need a new stove.

use a rubbermaid-- but i still wouldnt use ANY rocks from any drainage ditch.. its just too risky.

 

[mrgrackle]

Yea thats sounds a little risky. When I put rocks in my tank I usually throw them on a baking sheet in the oven at 400 degrees for an hour or two. This seems more effective as the rocks reach a temp twice as high as boiling. Also this way you dont have to find a huge pot for doing multiple rocks...they just have to fit in the oven.

EDIT: This process will not remove contaminants. Will only help to sterilize

ACK! baking river rocks in an oven is dangerous a great way to blow up a rock. Water trapped inside rocks turning to vapor expands and can explode a rock. I've never seen it happen, but I've also never done it because of the warnings. First learned this from doing a lot of canoe camping... don't use river rocks to ring your camp fire.