RES tank

Question
Hi Yexalen.  

Firstly, is it necessary to have a heater in my res tank?  She's very happy as is, and the water is about 72 degrees.

Secondly, I received a her from my friend a week ago.  She's in very good health, and all the equiptment is right.  However, on the front of the tank, there is a large mineral build up like you would normally find around a fishtank.  I'm guessing its from the filter water splashing up and hitting the tank wall.  It is above the waterline. It blocks our view of the turtle, but it is not causing any health risks/problems.  My question is how do we remove the build up without scratching the glass?  I read somewhere that sand paper worked, and I do not want to use any harsh chemicals.

Thirdly, the water quality.  The ph level is at 7.0, but the nitrite levels worry me.  It is saying that the nitrite levels are at 4.0, which I know is dangerous.  The turtle seems unaffected but I still don't like it.  I attribute it to the fact that the filter is only about 8 days old, and hasn't had time to cycle.  We recieved the turtle and the whole set up from my friend, and the filter had gotten dropped and broken, so they bought us a new one. It's a whisper 20i and its made a big difference in the tank since I installed it.  But do you think the nitrite levels are so high because the bacteria have not yet grown in the filter?  And if not, what can I do to lower the nitrite levels?

Thanks,
Hardy.

Answer
Hello, heaters are necessary during cold months 72F is fine but they like warmer water. Submersible heaters do not cost that much but be sure you get one that you can set to a specific temperature and has a plastic cage around it to prevent your turtle from being burned.

Mineral Deposits can be removed with 600 grit wet and dry sandpaper. I heard it works wonders without scratching the glass.

Sorry I am not sure about the nitrite level problems.

Best of luck
Yexalen