Reptile tank for sump

[stickman87]

So I have a 20 gallon tank that I had a bearded Dragon in and got a bigger tank for it and wanted to use the 20 for a sump for one if my salt tanks I was wondering if I pulled the silicone off cleaned it with vinagar and re sealed it if it would be ok to use

 

[coralosity351]

Was it bought as a reptile tank or aquarium? The reptile tank are typically made with thinner glass and are not meant to hold water

 

[stickman87]

It is an aquarium

 

[JaimeAdams]

It is an aquarium

Then you are fine. I don't think that you need to replace the silicon unless the tank leaks. Just clean the tank out and you are good to go.

 

[nanoreefer14]

If you are making it into a sump, then its going to be supported by the baffles anyway. Go for it

 

[stickman87]

Ok thanks

 

[AdamNC]

I say no only because it is intentionally made for no water. The glass thickness is less then a standard aquarium. I know and have the one your talking about and it is thinner, I just wouldn't trust it.

 

[stickman87]

It's an aqueon tank I had fish in previously before the bearded was in there

 

[AdamNC]

Ah ok then just make sure the silicone hasn't dried out from the heat lamp.

 

[wkscott]

A 20 gallon is not so large that's difficult to handle.
1. Put some newspaper on a level floor, put the tank on the newspaper and CAREFULLY fill the tank with water. Don't spill any water on the newspaper .
2. If after 24 hours or so and the newspaper is still dry and you don't see any signs of leakage, you are good to go.
3. Clean the tank with a vinegar solution, rinse well.
4. If the tank is leaky, you know what to do.

I haven't had a bearded dragon for more than 20 years but the one I had removed much of the aquarium sealant with his sharp claws. I wasn't able to even fill that tank with 3 inches of water before I noticed leaks on all sides. This was also a FISH designed aquarium. :eek:

 

[stickman87]

Ok I am going to pull the old silicone off and reseal it anyway

 

[nanoreefer14]

I recently went through this process with a 55. Honestly, after the time and money in the silicone and such, if it has to be resealed its more worth your time and money to just go buy a new tank. Especially if its only a 20 gallon. $ per gallon sale at petco and you are good to go. But thats just MO