Posted on: May 15, 2020 | by: Chloe Moore
Moving a Fish Tank
James Cromwell once said, “Pets are humanizing. They remind us we have an obligation and responsibility to preserve and nurture and care for all life.” This includes our fish. Many children’s first pets are fish, and they’re some of the first things that teach us responsibility. When it’s time to move your fish tank, you obviously want to take good care of it so it can continue to be a home for your finned friends. Here are some tips for cleaning and moving your fish tank so it will be in tip-top shape in your new home.
How to Clean an Empty Fish Tank
Over time, fish tanks collect debris, grime and water stains on the glass walls. For a thorough cleaning, you’ll need:
- Water.
- A heavy-duty cleaner such as bleach.
- Paper towels.
- A clean kitchen sponge.
- An algae scraper.
- Aquarium cleaner.
Start by rinsing out the tank with warm water to remove the first layer of grime and debris. If you can, use a shower nozzle or sprayer for added pressure. Once you drain the water and wipe everything down with the paper towels, you should only have the hard stains left.
Next, use the algae scraper to remove any difficult algae and buildup. The firm end of a clean kitchen sponge can help to get rid of any deep stains. Then add a small amount of bleach or a similar cleaner to a paper towel, and wipe it all over the interior of the tank – not on the outside. Once you’re done scrubbing, move the tank out into the sun for four hours or more hours so the bleach can break down and won’t have an effect on your pets later.
Finally, clean the glass with aquarium cleaner found at most pet stores. Wipe it down with paper towels, and you’re all set to store or move your fish tank!
How to Move a Large Fish Tank
Moving a fish tank can be easier than you think! The 5 steps below can help your move go smoothly so your fish tank is ready for your aquatic pets later.
- Put a plan in place.
When moving a fish tank, you also need to move everything inside of it including decorations and pets. You’ll want to start by gathering the necessary supplies:
- Containers for fish – plastic bags or buckets work best.
- Buckets for live plants – remember to submerge them in water for their survival.
- Tape to secure lids on containers.
- A fishnet for getting your fish into their travel containers.
- A siphon hose to remove the water from the tank.
- Any packing supplies you want for transporting items to their new location.
- Move your fish.
In order to clean your tank, you’ll need to take your fish out and place them in their transportation containers. Remember to stop feeding them for 24 hours before moving them (healthy fish will be fine without food for up to a week) so the water stays as clean as possible. Do keep in mind that fish can become stressed when moved to a new environment. To help reduce that stress, wait as long as possible to move them, and use the water from the tank in the new containers. You can also place multiple fish together if you’re using buckets.
- Pack the tank.
Because aquariums are made of glass, they’re very fragile — especially when being transported. To reduce the chance of cracks and other damage, you’ll want to take the time to secure your tank as much as possible. Pack the lid separately with several layers of bubble wrap. Try placing a foam board in the bottom of the tank and fill in the rest with towels, blankets or pillows. Then wrap the tank in an extra layer of protection and place inside of a larger box. If the box has a lid, label the box and mark which end is up so it doesn’t get flipped during the move.
- The loading process.
As you load up the tank, take care to position the fish tank so nothing is placed on top of it. You’ll also want to keep the fish in your car or the cab as the back of the moving truck typically isn’t climate controlled.
- Unpack.
One of the first things you’ll want to do when you arrive at your new place or get your tank out of storage is set it up. If you haven’t decided on a specific spot, choose the room the tank will be in. Double check the glass for any cracks, and then begin rebuilding the habitat. Once everything is where you want, add your fin-friends back into the tank with their container water (provided it’s still clean), and top it off with dechlorinated water. Finally, let the water adjust to room temperature before turning on the heater and pump.
Storing a Fish Tank with Find Self Storage
If you need to downsize or replace your fish tank, a self-storage unit with Find Self Storage is a great option! With a storage unit near you in Dallas, TX, Carrollton, TX, Plano, TX, Leesville, LA and Alexandria, LA on Windermere Blvd and Lodi Rd, you can create extra space in your home for guests, children or an office. If you’re concerned about storing items that are temperature sensitive, we offer features such as climate-controlled storage units.
Create space in your home with Find Self Storage today!