Old Biocube 14 Setup Help

pjreute

New member
I had a 55 gal FOWLR some time ago, and have found some time and money to get back into the hobby. In any case, I received an old Biocube 14 from a co-worker and it hasn't been setup for probably >5 years. It looks pretty rough, sand still in it, etc. Before I get into any type of setup, I assume I need to clean the tank up, which is where my concern lies. Are there any considerations to take into account after a tank has sat this long? What should I use to clean it and get ready to start a setup as I am new to this type of setup. Any help is much appreciated!
 
Remove all sand. I would soak the tank in vinegar solution to remove any calcium deposits. For a tank that hasn't had anything in it for 5 years, after being completely clean, I would let it sit with water completely filled for at bare minimum a week, longer if you can. Place paper towels around all edges. Tape them to the seams around the tank. That's the only way to
Spot a small leak. I would replace any bulkheads and plumbing to be safe.
 
Remove all sand. I would soak the tank in vinegar solution to remove any calcium deposits. For a tank that hasn't had anything in it for 5 years, after being completely clean, I would let it sit with water completely filled for at bare minimum a week, longer if you can. Place paper towels around all edges. Tape them to the seams around the tank. That's the only way to
Spot a small leak. I would replace any bulkheads and plumbing to be safe.
Thanks so much. Is tap water ok following the vinegar?
 
Sorry to keep bothering, but I let it sit for a few days with a 1:1 vinegar water solution and then let it sit for a few days with just water. Should I refill it again with just water and maybe run a cheap HOB freshwater filter to remove any traces of vinegar?? Also, no leaks spotted.
 
Vinegar will dissipate and is totally reef safe(people dose vinegar as part of carbon dosing)! Just let it air dry for a couple days to let the odor dissipate.
 
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