setting up a used Aquatop 40 gallon AIO

[RoccoM]

I have gotton a used Aquatop 40 gallon AIO that has sat empty for over a year with sand and rocks still in it. It is pretty dirty with alot of salt buildup. I am going to replace all the component parts the return pump, heater, skimmer. It came woth two current marine R24 lights and 2 wavemakers. What suggestions do you all have about getting this tank ready for success? I am a newbie to reef hobby and need all the info possible! Thanks for all responses!

 

[revhtree Verified Admin]

Welcome to your new home for saltwater reef aquarium resources and fun! Welcome to the family! :D

 

[Crabs McJones]

Welcome to R2R! A good cleaning and some vinegar will help get the job done

 

[Peace River]

Welcome to Reef2Reef!!!

 

[zheka757]

Welcome to R2R!

 

[Fish Fan]

Welcome to Reef2Reef! Good luck with your build!

 

[fishface NJ]

Welcome to R2R

 

[vetteguy53081]

 

[UncommonSense]

Welcome to R2R!

If the tank has been sitting for so long, the sand and rock should be thoroughly cleaned before restarting, at the very least!

I recommend using a bucket for sand, and a bucket or bin for the rock… start by thoroughly rinsing, then let it soak in water to soften all the dried on detritus for at least a day!

While that’s happening, you can clean the tank thoroughly (watch out for the silicone seams while scrubbing/scraping the glass!)…

Once the tank’s decently tidied up; I recommend finding a solid, flat, well supported place to set the tank where water on the floor isn’t an issue (400+lbs when full). Fill it up completely with water, and let it sit for at least a few days to “pressure test” the silicone seals…

Once the tank’s been pressure tested/test run, you’re ready to start actually putting things together! — have fun!

 

[B&CinB.C.]

Hello . Welcome to Reef 2 Reef . Do lots of research and go slow . They say nothing good happens fast in a reef tank . I find citric acid works well for cleaning . Enjoy the ride

 

[CoastieCorals]

Welcome to R2R!

 

[JumboShrimp]

Nice tanks. This is our 24-gallon AquaTop at the office. Just reset it; it has 2 Clowns and a Yellow Tail Damsel. I dropped a small 8-watt UV sterilizer into one of the chambers, and the water got crystal clear. Kessil A80 light.

 

[Brisk]

Welcome!

 

[kevgib67]

Welcome, glad you are here!

 

[1112-425XL]

 

[edsbeaker]

Hello and welcome!

 

[FrugalReeferJon]

 

[Ocean_Queenie]

Hello & Welcome!

 

[ShakeyGizzard]

I would also do a soak (sand and rock) in a bucket with a bottle or two of peroxide. This can clean and also remove any left over dried organics that may be on it.

 

[00W]

Welcome Welcome to R2R!