NeWcS

So I picked up a new tank and stand today and have a few question?($30.00)

1) How many gallons is it? It's 4ft long, 17in high and 12in wide.
2) Whats the best way to clean it?
3) How much rock do I need?
4) It came with a Diatom Filter and a bag of some sort of powder. How does this work and where can I get more info on this filter. I dont see any sort of model number. only us pat. no. 3,458,441

Thank you!!!

-JAy

kacie

Sounds like a 55 gallon tank. Great price!

pinkfloydpuffer

1) It's about 40 gallons
2) Use bleach or vinegar. Make sure you rinse it out really well.
3) Not sure about the rock question... is it saltwater? You'd want 40 lbs of live rock if it is...
4) Dont' know about the filter

Good luck

NeWcS

Sorry, Its going to be used so fresh water. Also when cleaning it with bleach or vinegar what is the ratio? Also, How would I rinse and tank that size; I live in a apartment?

-Jay

Dozey

1) Your tanks is 42.39 US gallons.
3) You will need approximately 40 lbs. of gravel.

2) That's a vague question. You will be doing weekly water changes, vacuuming the gravel, cleaning the glass inside and out, filter media will need cleaning, and more.

4) You might find your filter here http://www.diatomfilters.com/

But befor anything you really should start here http://www.fishlore.com/NitrogenCycle.htm

pinkfloydpuffer

Oh, you meant gravel! Silly me. Yeah, 40-80 lbs of gravel.
I've never actually used the bleach method.... so I couldn't tell you. When I used vinegar I just put in however much I wanted to... Sorry I can't be more specific, I just kinda freehanded it.
Could you rinse it in the shower/bath?

Shawnie

bleach solution is 19 parts water to 1 part bleach..and after cleaning , use EXTRA dechlorinator when rinseing and filling...your tank is 40 gals and a great find for 30 bucks!

Dozey

To clean it before using it, straight vinegar is fine. Rinsing it can be a challenge. In the tub standing on end to it drains as you rinse it with a hose. Be really careful, getting the tank in the tub can go really bad. Get help if you need it to ensure you don’t crack the glass or break the seal. Use a LOT of water when rinsing it

Beeker

I'm guessing about 1/4 to 1/2 cup of bleach to 1 gal of water. When you are done, rinse it really good so that you don't smell the bleach anymore.
When vacuuming the gravel and doing waterchanges, this is what I use on my 75 gal tank:
http://www.bigalsonline.com/StoreCat...Type=0&offset=
I love it!

Red1313

don't mix bleach and vinager... bad chemical reaction (same as mixing bleach with ammonia)

Beeker

Good advise.
Very important!

NeWcS

Living in a apartment really is a P.I.T.A. I have a hand held steam cleaner I was going to try and use to clean it. Heck, I can't even get the thing in my place with out help, Its still sitting in my truck. The tank weights well over 100lbs and looks to be double paned glass. Challenges

-JAy