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	algae scraping
bsblue Hobbyist Posts: 123 Kudos: 26 Votes: 1 Registered: 16-Feb-2003	I am getting ready to redo my 75g that has been sitting empty for a month or so (I am on Spring Break so I finally have time). It still has algae on the sides and top glass. What is the best way to take it off? I have a razor blade, should I get the glass wet first or do it dry? If I do it dry will it scratch the glass? I also have SOS type pads to do some scrubbing if needed(no chemicals added to pad). Thanks is advance for the suggestions, I am very excited to finally get this project underway.
Posted 26-Jan-2006 11:26
keithgh Ultimate Fish Guru Posts: 6371 Kudos: 6918 Votes: 1542 Registered: 26-Apr-2003	bsblue I do not know of the pads you are refering to in Aust we have several that do the same job and will not scratch the glass. First of all I would fill the tank up as to soften any gunk that has built up, then set about cleaning it up as required. Also this will see if the tank is still holding water without any leaks. I would prefer to use warm water to do the job. Keith Near enough is not good enough, therefore good enough is not near enough, and only your best will do. I VOTE DO YOU if not WHY NOT? VOTE NOW VOTE NOW
Posted 26-Jan-2006 11:26
OldTimer Mega Fish USAF Retired Posts: 1181 Kudos: 1294 Votes: 809 Registered: 08-Feb-2005	The 3M type scrubbing pads if used with water do not tend to scratch the glass. Another alternative are the nylon shower sponges used for bathing. Water, taken in moderation, cannot hurt anybody. -- Mark Twain
Posted 26-Jan-2006 11:26
FRANK Moderator Posts: 5108 Kudos: 5263 Votes: 1690 Registered: 28-Dec-2002	Hi, Take the others advice and use either a razor blade, or the plastic scrubbies. SOS pads are steel wool, and will scratch the heck out of the glass. Frank -->>> The Confidence of Amateurs, is the Envy of Professionals <<<--
Posted 26-Jan-2006 11:26
bsblue Hobbyist Posts: 123 Kudos: 26 Votes: 1 Registered: 16-Feb-2003	Yea, I did not mean SOS pads. I meant the Scotch Brite/3M pads. I would prefer to use warm water also, but I will have to take it out to the front yard and use cold water from the hose to clean it out. I don't think there will be any issues with it holding water, it has been sitting empty in my living room. Thank you all for your help. I know what I am going to be doing tomorrow.
Posted 26-Jan-2006 11:26
curvicep Fingerling Posts: 46 Kudos: 43 Votes: 0 Registered: 01-Feb-2005	Old credit cards are great for scraping off algae.
Posted 26-Jan-2006 11:26
Babelfish Administrator Small Fry with Ketchup Posts: 6833 Kudos: 8324 Votes: 1570 Registered: 17-Apr-2003	I believe scotch/3M pads are actually not for use in aquariums....something about it being on their packaging. I do know they do use some chemicals in their products to make them "wet" if you're going to use a scratchy pad go with a generic store brand. They much less likely to be bad for the tank. Be sure to rinse well before use, remember where they are located in the store there's lots of cleaning chemicals . ^_^ [hr width='40%']"Put your soul in the water, And join me for a swim tonight"
Posted 26-Jan-2006 11:26
Falstaf Fish Addict Posts: 785 Kudos: 1211 Votes: 196 Registered: 12-Feb-2004	IME it's easier to scrap of old algae once it's dry, it becomes sort of a ashy texture, once it's all off, you can just wash the tank as you would normaly do.
Posted 26-Jan-2006 11:26
bsblue Hobbyist Posts: 123 Kudos: 26 Votes: 1 Registered: 16-Feb-2003	The pads that I bought were the only ones that did not say "not safe for aquarium use". I hadn't thought of a credit card. I will try that before the razor blade. I am scared of scratching the glass. Thank you all again, you have been great help.
Posted 26-Jan-2006 11:26


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