How to clean used overflow, pvc pipes, etc from used tank

Reefrock · 09/18/2020, 07:48 PM

Hello. I am getting back into the hobby and starting with a used setup that was taken down. I was wondering what the current thoughts are for cleaning the acrylic over flow to remove algae, etc and also the other plastic items just as pvc overflow pipes, the sump, etc. should I use a mixture of vinegar and water or something different?

Any help is appreciated

billdogg · 09/19/2020, 07:18 AM

A vinegar bath will take care of anything that can't be easily replaced. I would not bother trying to clean any PVC however. It is way too cheap. I'd replace it all.

Member No. 1 · 09/21/2020, 08:44 AM

While vinegar was the method for years, citric acid works as good if not better. And it won't harm pump seals like vinegar has been known to do.

1 cup/gal of water. No need to use RO/DI either.

https://www.amazon.com/Milliard-Citr...e%2C149&sr=8-6

09/18/2020, 07:48 PM	#1
Reefrock Premium Member Join Date: Mar 2003 Location: Ohio Posts: 232	How to clean used overflow, pvc pipes, etc from used tank Hello. I am getting back into the hobby and starting with a used setup that was taken down. I was wondering what the current thoughts are for cleaning the acrylic over flow to remove algae, etc and also the other plastic items just as pvc overflow pipes, the sump, etc. should I use a mixture of vinegar and water or something different? Any help is appreciated

09/19/2020, 07:18 AM	#2
billdogg Registered Member Join Date: Apr 2008 Location: Grove City, Ohio Posts: 10,806	A vinegar bath will take care of anything that can't be easily replaced. I would not bother trying to clean any PVC however. It is way too cheap. I'd replace it all. __________________ I'll try to be nice if you try to be smarter! I can't help that I grow older, but you can't make me grow up! Current Tank Info: 120 mixed reef with 40b sump, RO 150 skimmer, AI Sol Blue x 2, and a 60g Frag Tank with 100g rubbermaid sump. 2 x Kessil A360w lights, BM curve 5 skimmer

09/21/2020, 08:44 AM	#3
Member No. 1 Ver. 2.1 Join Date: Mar 2005 Location: Rehoboth, MA Posts: 1,803	While vinegar was the method for years, citric acid works as good if not better. And it won't harm pump seals like vinegar has been known to do. 1 cup/gal of water. No need to use RO/DI either. https://www.amazon.com/Milliard-Citr...e%2C149&sr=8-6 __________________ Pete "I never make mistakes... I thought I did once, but I was wrong" Current Tank Info: In the process - http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=2661614