How to Get Rid of Calcium Deposits on Fish Tanks

White spots on the glass of fish tanks and the filter are most likely calcium deposits. They are often created by evaporating water and can be prevented by regularly cleaning the tank, including changing a portion of the water. Once the deposits are present, it requires a bit of elbow grease to get rid of them.

Things You'll Need

  • Tank scraper
  • Distilled vinegar
  • Spray bottle
  • Paper towels
  • Rags or cloths
  • Test for pH levels
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Instructions

    • 1

      Combine one part white vinegar with two parts water in a spray bottle. Shake to mix solution completely.

    • 2

      Empty the tank, making sure fish are kept in a similar environment with the correct temperatures.

    • 3

      Spray the vinegar solution on tank walls and let it sit for a couple of minutes. The vinegar mix can be used on any type of material, including acrylic.

    • 4

      Scrub with a paper towel or cloth.

    • 5

      Repeat the cleaning process until you have removed the deposits. Try leaving the vinegar sitting on the glass longer. This gives the acid time to break down the calcium.

    • 6

      Try straight distilled vinegar (not diluted by water) for stubborn spots. The higher concentrate requires more rinsing, but may be necessary to get rid of the calcium completely.

    • 7

      Scrape hard-to-remove calcium deposits with a plastic scraper available from most pet stores or a razor blade. Only use a razor blade on glass, as it will scratch other materials.

    • 8

      Remove filters and change the carbon filter pack. Use the vinegar-and-water solution to clean any plastic parts that have calcium deposit buildup. You may need to soak smaller items in vinegar to clean them completely.

    • 9

      Clean plastic plants, houses and other aquarium decorations with vinegar and water.

    • 10

      Rinse everything with clean water. Continue rinsing until water in the tank has normal pH levels. Compare the pH reading from the aquarium with that of water from the faucet.

    • 11

      Dry the aquarium completely before setting up the tank or adding water.