Whether it’s a huge crack in a pane of glass caused by physical damage or a slight gap in the sealant thanks to natural wear and tear many fish keepers discover sooner or later that they are the owner of a leaky aquarium. The obvious question is what exactly can be done with a large and heavy fish tank which stubbornly refuses to do the very job it was designed for. Fortunately we have seven possible solutions for you today…
Replace The Glass
If you have a serious crack in your aquarium it may be possible to remove the damaged pane altogether and replace it with a new piece. The first step is getting hold of replacement glass and many glaziers or home improvement stores will not only sell you a piece of glass but will even cut it to size so careful measurement – of the thickness as well as the length and width – is essential. Then using a sharp craft knife loosen the sealant holding the damaged panel in place, remove it and in it’s place fit the new piece of glass before carefully resealing the joins.
Fix With Aquarium Sealant
If the crack is very small or it is actually the seal between two panes of glass that is leaking it is often quick and easy to reseal your leaky aquarium and make it water-tight again thanks to the use of some specialist aquarium silicon sealant. Simply apply the sealant to dry glass, smooth over using a finger or the back of a teaspoon then allow it to dry thoroughly.
Use It For Non Aquatic Pets
Just because your aquarium leaks doesn’t mean you have to throw it away. If repairing your aquarium doesn’t appeal or isn’t cost effective another solution is to put it to a slightly different use. A range of small mammals and exotic pets can be perfectly housed in a disused aquarium where the fact that it is no longer watertight won’t make any difference whatsoever.
Use For Semi Aquatic Pets
A wide range of fascinating amphibians like a moist environment but also appreciate dry land areas to be able to get out of the water and forage for food. In this way a leaky aquarium can be reused, placing a cat litter tray or similar item into the base to create a “pond” area and building an attractive artificial rainforest around it to house treefrogs, salamanders or newts for example.
As a side note, amphibians can be talented escape artists so if you’re considering this option ensure that you invest in a suitable lid to keep your new semi-aquatic pets safe and sound.
Sell It
If you don’t want your old leaky aquarium there may be other people who would be happy to take it off your hands for one of the purposes listed above. As a result you could try listing your aquarium for sale in the local newspaper or online in the hope of selling it, thus providing you with some cash to put towards a new water-tight aquarium.
Give It Away
Whilst it’s nice to sell an old aquarium the size and weight of many fish tanks mean that it may be quicker and easier to just give your old tank away rather than waiting for a buyer. In this way you may lose out on some cash but you can quickly clear space for a replacement tank and get on with your hobby sooner rather than later.
Recycle It
Lastly consider recycling your old glass or plastic aquarium rather than simply throwing it into landfill. By doing this you will be helping the environment – and as a result the fish that live in it.
