Recovering a failed tank - need help

[OwduaNM]

I am trying to recoup a failed tank. It was in very poor condition. Lots of algae, mineral build up, etc. No surviving fish.

The filter has been running along just fine however.

I'm looking for advice as to whether I've done anything wrong thus far in the recovery, as well as what I need to do differently compared to a fresh start.

Steps taken:
Removed all water
Removed all decor, gravel
Rinsed gravel
Scrubbed decor with brush and hot water (no chemicals)
Removed mineral build up on most components by scrubbing with a little white vinegar
Scrapped the rest, soaked the worst components in water/vinegar mixture. Then rinsed thoroughly
I've refilled the tank. Have not used any chemicals yet. I have very hard water.
Filter is running again using the same media

Any advice is greatly appreciated!


Sent from my iPad using Aquarium Advice

 

[Delapool]

Sounds good, complete clean and start again. Question might be what did the fish die of. If general stuff - no worries, if some nasty infection - might need further treatment.

Also if the filter might still be cycled.

 

[OwduaNM]

The fish died from neglect - lack of feeding and lack of water changes.

The filter ran constantly.

How will I know if it's still cycled?


Sent from my iPhone using Aquarium Advice

 

[Delapool]

You could add some ammonia and see if it is processed to nitrates. Do you have something like the API freshwater master test kit at all?


My sister restarts hers quite a bit and seems to be fine, the bacteria recover quickly.

 

[OwduaNM]

I just ordered some ammonia. I will test using the API test kit for a couple days to see if it is still cycled.

Thank you!


Sent from my iPhone using Aquarium Advice

 

[Delapool]

Good luck, keep us posted? Always keen to know how re-starts go.

 

[OwduaNM]

Good news! My tank is still cycled. I'm working on getting the pH balanced. It was around 7.8 which is abnormally high. Once it's balanced I will add some fish!


Sent from my iPhone using Aquarium Advice

 

[Delapool]

That is good news! Seems to be (and I could be wrong) the bacteria get tougher the older the tank.