HELP! Old Sand New system question

[skibums]

Hi everyone,

I am building a new 120 system after taking down my 240 7yrs ago.

I know it's been too long but the bug finally bit me again and the time is right. Plus the kids want to see it running ASAP.. lol

I have a couple questions because it's about time for me to put my sand and my base rock in next weekend hopefully.

1. Can I reuse my old dry sand that I stored away in a rubbermade tote?

2. If so how do I prepare it? Or do I just put it in my new system after rinsing it with fresh water a little bit?

Thanks in advance!

 

[fishroomlady]

I would think that you could rinse it well and then put in the tank. I'd probably try to seed it with a small amount of live stand (take a cup or so from the LFS or a friend).

 

[skibums]

Thanks fishroomlady..
That's what I was hoping and thinking I could do. I have seen some mixed reviews about this, but haven't come across a thread where someone was doing this after the sand has been sitting so long and COMPLETELY dried out.
I also read of some ppl using chlorine or vinegar to rinse.?? Idk about that so I'm hoping I'll get some info from this thread.

 

[skibums]

Any other ideas anyone else?

 

[Fish Biscuit]

I think if it's sat dried up for the last 7 yrs you should be fine with rinsing it well. I personally don't feel comfortable using bleach on anything going in or near my tank.

 

[skibums]

Hmm sounds like rinse and reuse seems to be ok so far.