Used tank decontamination

[2clowns1455]

I'm purchasing a used 125 gallon with a sump. How can I safely decontaminate this tank? It is completely empty with no live stock or water of course. Just the tank and sump. I want to just clean the entire thing so I know it's a fresh start. No pumps of any kind just yet.

 

[Fish Fan]

Bleach is your friend here :-) Try about a 10% solution of household bleach and water. Use plain bleach with no dyes or perfumes, and not the kind that says "no-splash". Wipe everything down real good, let it sit for ten minutes or so, rise well, and let it dry, ideally out in the sun. Bleach is both degraded by sunlight, and inactivated once dry.

If you don't want to try bleach, a mild acid like vinegar can help, it will also help to cut through any mineral deposits on the tank too.

I hope that helps, good luck!

 

[2clowns1455]

That's what I was looking for. Thanks!

 

[jsmkmavity]

Same!

 

[JumboShrimp]

If you run into any particularly tough stains/problem areas, you can make a thick paste of water and Bar Keeper's Friend (Walmart, Amazon, etc); rub hard with a rag, and rinse thoroughly.

 

[jsmkmavity]

Or put a paper towel in the tough area and spray with vinegar. The wet paper towel will stay in place and hold the vinegar where you need it to keep working. Let it sit for as long as needed.