Brand new tank - cleaning/leak testing procedure?

[fulltang]

I just purchased my first tank, the Fluval Evo 13.5. I'm still waiting on other parts, such as my Spectrapure 5 stage RO/DI filter, reservoirs, various other accessories, and I have to finish up my custom stand.

In the mean time I'd like to do a leak test on the tank and test on my Autoaqua AWC. Is it safe to do this with tap water, or should I use RO/DI?

Thanks!

 

[Seawitch]

You can use tap water. I'd try to wipe everything off when you're done. The advantage of using RO/DI water is that you could leave the water in the tank if you want. But lots of people test with tap water if they're not ready to set up yet.

 

[Ron Reefman]

You can use tap water. Any residue from the water will be miniscule compared to the 13g of RO/DI you'll be putting in the tank later. Do it outside if you can, but not if it's going to freeze! Sometimes I don't think about that being in SW Florida where it's going to be a chilly day today with the high temp only being in the upper 60's.

 

[Captain Quint]

I always use tap with a bit of white distilled vinegar for an initial check of a water leak and it also cleans out any bad juju which could have gotten in the system somewhere between being made, packed and delivered.

Empty it and dry it out.

EDIT: Forgot my manners. Argh. I meant to add Welcome to R2R @fulltang

 

[Synner Reef]

I totally forgot to test for leaks when i started mine! Captain has given me great advice at the start of my journey. Enjoy yours. Looking forward to your progress.

 

[Captain Quint]

I totally forgot to test for leaks when i started mine! Captain has given me great advice at the start of my journey. Enjoy yours. Looking forward to your progress.

Thank you for the kind words, my friend.

 

[fulltang]

I always use tap with a bit of white distilled vinegar for an initial check of a water leak and it also cleans out any bad juju which could have gotten in the system somewhere between being made, packed and delivered.

Empty it and dry it out.

EDIT: Forgot my manners. Argh. I meant to add Welcome to R2R @fulltang

Thanks for the warm welcome folks :) I'll be posting up a journal for my tank once I get some more parts in, including the Imagitarium 40 gallon metal stand I'm modifying with magnet bamboo plywood panels!

How much vinegar would you toss in for the 13ish gallons in the Evo?

 

[Captain Quint]

Thanks for the warm welcome folks :) I'll be posting up a journal for my tank once I get some more parts in, including the Imagitarium 40 gallon metal stand I'm modifying with magnet bamboo plywood panels!

How much vinegar would you toss in for the 13ish gallons in the Evo?

I'd just add a pint or so of it in the DT, then fill with water thereby diluting it.