cleaning an old used tank?

[kelbaker79]

I am going to set up this 55 gallon I got yesterday off of CL, there is a calcium build up on the glass, what is the best way to get it off? It's really stuck on there good

 

[Pleco11771]

Really hot water worked for me

 

[Aces11]

Diluted vinegar should get it off

 

[Fishkeeper26]

Diluted vinegar should get it off

I can second that

 

[severum mama]

You don't even have to dilute the vinegar. If the build up is really bad, soak a paper towel with vinegar and lay it on the affected area for 20 minutes or so. It should wipe right off. HN1 and I have cleaned old crusty coralline off of acrylic that way- it works so well we didn't even need to scrape and scratch that acrylic.

Rinse well when you're done.

 

[kelbaker79]

Great! Thanks so much! I've never had to deal with this much build up on a tank before, so I was kind of clueless :/

 

[StevesPrettyCool]

I got my 55 off CL as well. It took a whole bunch of elbow grease to get mine clean but i used vinegar and a razor blade and after rinsed with warm water, but be careful not to cut yourself or scratch the glass

How to Clean an Old Glass Aquarium with Vinegar and a Razor Blade | eHow.com

I think they sell plastic razor blades too, not sure if they are only for acrylic or if they can be used with glass also. I just used a few metal ones tho

 

[StevesPrettyCool]

love the paper towel idea too btw, will be put to use in the near future for sure! beats elbow grease for sure