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A fish tank can be a significant investment, but it also requires a reasonable amount of time to care for your fish. When it’s time to take a break from that process, you may need to find a long-term storage option for your fish tank. These tanks tend to be heavy, awkward, and oversized, making them hard to move. Choosing the best place to store it and then preparing the tank before tucking it away can help preserve it for years to come.

Preparing Your Fish Tank for Storage

Before you pack it away, follow these steps to minimize damage to your fish tank.

Empty Contents

Start by removing the filter and all components in the fish tank, such as decorative features. Your goal should be to unplug the tank, remove the filter, and then, one by one, remove everything within it. However, as you do this, take each piece apart and clean away all algae on the surface. Don’t try to reuse the carbon sponge in your filter later. Remove all lighting in the same way, properly cleaning each piece as you go with a vinegar and water solution to remove all bacteria and algae. It’s a good idea to set these items in the open to allow them to air dry for several hours before you bundle each one separately in packing paper. Don’t stuff them into a box, but use layers of packing paper and bubble wrap to protect each item individually.

Empty The Tank And Then Clean It

Before storing the tank, clean it thoroughly. You’ll need to siphon all the water out and dispose of it right down a drain. Once most of the water is out, you’ll need to collect the gravel from the base and rinse it off. An easy way to do this is to use a scoop to get all of the gravel into a strainer with tiny holes. Once rinsed off, place it in a zipped bag or lidded container for storage. Use a mixture of hot water and mild dish soap to clean the inside and outside of the fish tank. You may wish to fill it with hot water and then add a liter of white vinegar to the water for every two gallons of water. Let this sit for at least an hour, and then, using gloves, scrub away the interior debris and buildup from the glass and the base. You may use a small bristle brush to scrub the surface thoroughly. Drain it, then rinse it, and repeat this process if there’s a need to do so. Finally, dry it. You’ll want to wipe it out with a clean cloth to absorb most of the moisture. Then, allow the entire tank to remain open to air dry for several hours. This helps to minimize the risk of mold growth later.

Protect The Tank From Damage

Once the tank is clean and ready for storage, you’ll still need to take a few extra steps to ensure it’s properly protected. Small strikes to the glass can lead to it shattering, or the welds on the steel can become loose over time and creating a weakness in the tank that puts it at risk. Follow these tips for keeping the tank safe.

• Wrap it with a thick blanket. It’s a good idea to ensure every side is covered with one or two blankets. You can use moving blankets, but any soft and thick blanket will help.
• If the tank is older, wrap it with bubble wrap. Choose a larger-sized bubble wrap and completely wrap the tank. It’s a good idea to then tape the wrap in place to ensure it does not loosen. You want a tight fit.
• Place it on a low-shelving unit or pallet. Don’t store the fish tank on the ground directly but keep it lower to the ground to minimize the risk of a big, heavy fall. You can keep it stored on a shelf or other flat surface that is strong enough to hold the tank.

You can store all your now-clean fish accessories, including the gravel, within the tank, in sealed bags and containers to keep everything together. That can minimize the search for filters or aquarium gear later.

What Do You Clean the Inside of a Fish Tank With?

To clean the inside of the fish tank, use a soft-bristled brush with light pressure and move it in a circular motion along the edges. You can use a mild dish detergent as well as white vinegar to help clean the surface. Avoid any type of heavy chemical or bleach, as these can lead to health hazards later.

How Do You Clean Aquarium Gravel for Storage?

You can clean and reuse aquarium gravel with a bit of care. Start by removing it from the aquarium and rinsing it with warm water to remove any debris. You can also add a bit of mild dish soap to it to allow for a better level of cleaning. If the tank has a significant amount of algae growth, it’s a good idea to soak the gravel in a solution of 1 part vinegar to 2 parts water. Then, rinse and lay it flat for several hours to allow it to fully dry before packing up the gravel for storage in plastic bags or a tote.

Can I Leave Water in the Tank During Storage?

The decision to leave water in the tank largely depends on the duration of storage. For short-term storage (a few weeks to a couple of months), leaving a portion of the water can help maintain water quality and minimize stress on fish when setting up again. However, for long-term storage, it's recommended to remove most of the water to prevent the accumulation of contaminants, algae growth, and potential water quality issues.

How Do I Prepare Fish for Storage?

Preparing fish for storage involves careful planning. First, set up a temporary aquarium with cycled water and suitable conditions. Gradually acclimate your fish to the new environment to minimize stress. Ensure proper aeration, filtration, and temperature maintenance in the temporary tank. Monitor your fish closely for any signs of stress or illness during their stay in the temporary habitat.

What Should I Do with Live Plants and Corals?

Live plants and corals require specific care during storage. Consider transferring them to a separate tank or container with proper lighting and water circulation. Maintain water parameters that support their growth and health. Regularly prune plants to prevent overgrowth, and ensure corals receive adequate light and water movement to prevent deterioration.

Can I Keep the Filtration System Running?

Leaving the filtration system running during storage is generally beneficial, especially for shorter storage periods. The filter helps maintain water quality by cycling and oxygenating the water. However, be sure to clean and maintain the filter components before storage to prevent clogs and bacterial overgrowth.

How Do I Prevent Algae Growth in an Empty Tank?

Algae can thrive in an empty tank if left unchecked. To prevent algae growth, thoroughly clean the tank interior before storage. Scrub off any existing algae and residue. Cover the tank to block out light, which is essential for algae growth. If storing for an extended period, periodically check the tank for any signs of algae and clean as needed.

What Precautions Should I Take Before Reassembly?

Before reassembling your tank, ensure the equipment is clean, properly assembled, and functional. Thoroughly rinse and dry the tank before refilling it with water. Gradually reintroduce your fish to the tank to allow them to acclimate to their familiar environment. Monitor water parameters closely during the reacclimation period and address any issues promptly.

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