Starting Over

[cbhance]

Hi everyone!

I had a 5 gallon tank with live rock, sand, two fish, some corals, and a clean up crew.

Long story short, my tank went to complete crap a few months ago when my fan died. I was extremely busy and never ended up getting a new one. Now, the light on the tank has died and the water has been stagnant for 4-5 months. It has evaporated to 50% in the tank and the top of the live rock is exposed.

I’d like to start over. I ordered a new fan and light. Now I’m looking at cleaning the tank and begin cycling it. I also ordered new filter material. What does this look like for me?

Is the live rock still good? Or should I get more live rock? Is the sand still good to use as well?

Should I rinse or clean the live rock? Give the sand a good rinse? Should I remove all of the water from the tank and do a 100% water change?

Thanks for as many steps and details as you all can give me! I really appreciate it!!

 

[lapin]

Empty the tank. Clean it with vinegar and a razor blade if glass. Rinse the crap out of the sand. Pressure wash the rocks. Let them soak for a few days in some salt water then rinse them off. that should help rid of all the nutrient and scum build up.,