Getting rid of water deposit stains

[edge78041]

I bought a used 55g and will be using it as FOWLR tank. The guy I bought it from did not clean it well and the whole tank has water stains.

What is the best way of getting rid of the deposits? Any product recomendations.

I live in Laredo, Texas so it would be best to purchase it online.

Thanks,
Ed

[JimD]

Fill it with warm water and dump a gallon of white vinegar in it, let it soak overnight, use a credit card to scrape off the deposits, that should do the trick.

[edge78041]

Thanks, I will try that.

[NaCl_H2O]

Jim's suggestion is right on! If afterwards you have any really bad spots, try full strength Muratic Acid, but be VERY careful handling or breathing the fumes. Best to use ruber gloves, and be in a well ventelated (outside if possible) area. Rinse it out REALLY REALLY good - any residue will really mess up your PH.

Muratic acid can be purchased at most pool supply shops, and usualy at Home Depot/Lowe's.

[GaryP]

You can rinse it out with some baking soda to make sure you don't have any acid residue.

[Mindypin]

If your tank is glass and if the credit card doesn't work, you can try one of those clickable paint/wallpaper scraper knives. They are also used to remove stickers from car windows. I am an artist (oils) and use them as palette scrapers since I mix paint on a glass palette. Just be sure that you put a clean razor blade in it and that there aren't paints or chemicals on the knife. If you aren't familiar with what I am describing I can send you a pic. That's what I use, in addition to vinegar, and it works like a charm and leaves no scratches. This way you won't have to fool with muratic acid. Good luck!

[AlienAnchovies]

Jim's suggestion is right on! If afterwards you have any really bad spots, try full strength Muratic Acid, but be VERY careful handling or breathing the fumes. Best to use ruber gloves, and be in a well ventelated (outside if possible) area. Rinse it out REALLY REALLY good - any residue will really mess up your PH.

Muratic acid can be purchased at most pool supply shops, and usualy at Home Depot/Lowe's.

btw muratic acid + foil + 20oz soda bottles = BOOM!

[edge78041]

btw muratic acid + foil + 20oz soda bottles = BOOM!

Thanks to all. I already went out and bought the vinegar and acid. I will keep you posted. Maybe I can submit some before and after shots of the 55g tank.

Thanks