Over time, limescale deposits form on the panes due to evaporation of the aquarium water. These can be removed with mechanical or chemical aids. When working on the pane surfaces inside the aquarium, care must be taken to ensure that no agents get into the aquarium water.
mechanical aids
- Sharp razor blades
- Knife for cleaning ceramic hobs
When using razor blades or knives, the adhesive on the aquarium must not be damaged.
Chemical auxiliaries – mild acids
- vinegar essence
- Vinegar
- citric acid
- Citric acid in crystalline form
- Lemon juice, as it is also used for salads, etc
- pH minus from the aquarium trade
Chemical auxiliaries – strong acids
- Cement residue remover
- urine scale remover
The respective agent is applied to kitchen roll paper, a damp sponge or a damp cloth and the lime is rubbed off with it.
In principle, all acids can be used. The stronger the acids used, the easier it is to remove the limescale. The less aggressive the acids are, the more mechanical work has to be done.
In order to achieve a longer period of action with mild acids such as vinegar or vinegar essence, the paper or cloth can be soaked with the respective agent and placed on the calcified area overnight. Mild acids can also be sprayed onto the calcified areas using a spray bottle. Brushing in the calcified areas is also possible. After a few minutes of waiting, the dissolved lime is wiped off together with the acid.
Stronger acids can be diluted with water. There will be e.g. B. 1 to 2 teaspoons of citric acid dissolved in water.
Gloves should be worn with all recommended acids to avoid rinsing hands.
The silicone with which the aquarium panes are glued is not attacked by acids because silicones are very stable organic compounds.
Alkaline solutions attack silicone and glass. Hydrofluoric acid also attacks glass.
Only mechanical aids should be used in a running aquarium. Chemical agents should only be used on the external surfaces.
Empty aquariums can also be cleaned inside with acids before use. After cleaning, the respective agent must be rinsed off well with plenty of warm water.