i have a slow leak in my tank - process to troubleshoot and fix

hi all

like the topic says

ive got a slow leak somewhere on my tank. all glass panels intact...it can only be the silicone seals

whats the next step to troubleshoot and any advise on the process to fix?

thanks

 

1. empty tank.
2. wash down with mix vinegar in some water and clean tank properly and let it dry.
3. then http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XKactsdPpO8

 

ok, I love the masking tape trick, I'll keep that in mind for when I reseal a tank again

 

also remember to have a little bit of water next to you when you smooth out the silicon. just dip your finger in there and then smooth it you in a single stroke. the water will stop the silicon from sticking(to a degree) to your finger and give you a great smooth finish.

 

Ah cool, thanks Pieter, I always try and use an old credit card like they ones they keep sending begging you to open an account lol, and it works ok but not 100% I think the water tip will help it look much more professional

 

Take note that this is for glass aquariums, i have not yet repaired leaks on an acrylic tank, and have no idea how to go about that. all i can find online is conflicting ideas (one says use silicon, other says never use silicon)

 

I stand under correction but Acrylic aquariums seems to be rather rare here in SA most of us just have glass and only use glass. I am still to see an acrylic aquarium

 

Great video thanks for that. If you are sure that the tank is leaking and not evaporation then empty it ASAP the last thing you want is to come home and find the panel out and water everywhere!

 

It all LOOKS so easy ..............:suspicious:

 

How to deal with silicon:
1. Get Cotton wool and Acetone. (cheap nail polish remover will do fine)
2. NOTE: DO NOT USE ACETONE ON ACRYLIC, you run the risk of creating a permanent stain/blemish (see the notes below)
3. if you spilled the silicon in which ever way, don't try to wipe it off the surface, you making the problem worse
4. if its a big blob, use any tissue paper to "pick up" the excess, i say again don't wipe.
5. Let the silicon cure, and remove it by dipping the cotton wool in acetone and just keep working at it until everything is removed.

Acetone is used commercially to create an acrylic glue used to bond acrylic pieces together. Acrylic shavings are placed into a glass container then doused in acetone. the acetone melts the acrylic which can then be used as a glue to stick pieces together for a seamless bond. once glued pieces are put together a uv light is used to quickly set the glue (dont build you aquariums like this, it is not strong enough to hold the water pressure). Just a little info on why you shouldn't use acetone on any plastic/acrylic surface.