Empty tanks stored outside in the cold?

[redfishsc]

I have a 70g column tank (23X23X31) that I currently have stored on my back patio. 1/2" glass.

It is sitting on its side so that it does NOT get water in it.


Temps around here are in the upper teens to low 20's.


Is this OK for storage? I don't, at the moment, have anywhere indoor to store it until I get a stand built in the coming months.

Thanks!

Matt

 

[seapug]

If water gets in the seams of the tank and freezes it could cause them to expand and split the silicone, especially if it's sitting on its side. I'd at least put it upright so its weight is properly supported/distributed and completely cover it with a tarp or large trash bag.

 

[tkeracer619]

A local reefer here was moving his tank when he got a new house 2 years ago. He put the tank in his uhaul truck. Didn't move it that night after putting it into the truck.

The next day the front pane was cracked along the entire panel. It was not from impact but from the really cold night we had. Probably a fluke but I wouldn't risk it.

 

[redfishsc]

Thanks guys, and good points made.

I didn't think of thermal expansion on the glass. I could definitely see that causing a problem. I'll see about getting it somewhere warmer...somehow lol...

 

[Jon_Hewett_85]

I would be leary of storing a glass tank without water for a significant period of time. In my experience the longer a tank sits dry, the greater the chance of leakage due to issues with the silicone seals. I have had a few tanks leak after being stored for a long time and refilled. I would definately recomend an extended test fill outdoors prior to putting it back indoors. Also I agree with storing it upright so the weight is evenly distributed.