How long without water?

[alexmarto]

Is there some kind of risk leaving a large (72" x 28" x 28") tank sitting empty for a long period and then filling it up, after that? Does the silicone glue loses it's properties by not being immersed in water?

alex

 

[z28pwr]

If it's a glass tank the sylicone will dry out over time and will eventually need to be re-syliconed. You are better off leaving the tank with water.

 

[Crusty Old Shellback]

Left mine sitting outside for over a year. No leaks when I filled it up and it's still holding water over 4 months later.

 

[Alphabet]

I had a 135aga in the basement for 2 years empty. Took it to the garage and filled it, no problems. I let it sit for a couple weeks though before getting it in the house. It has been in my living room ever since, filled of course. I believe if it does sit to long the silicone will dry out but how long I do not know.

 

[Nano Chris]

I think if exposed to extreme heat/cold it will dry it out.

 

[bolrog]

Had a 55G AGA sit for 5 yrs no water with the silicone being fine, a 180G AGA sit for 2 yrs fine, but had a 29G Perfecto 2 yrs dry spring a leak.

So fill it and let it sit for a min of 2 weeks (note. the 29G did not leak for 2 months)