new freshwater tank

Question
We just bought a new 75 gallon tank. Is there a special way we should clean it before setting it up? We used to have a 55 a few years ago but I don't remember what we did. Thanks

Answer
Hi Anne,

When you a buy a tank used, there's a couple of things you have to do - scrape the algae off the sides, remove any mineral deposits with vinegar, wash the inside with salt water or water with a little bit of bleach.

However, when you buy a brand new tank, it should be clean, maybe just a little bit dusty. So if you bought it used - and it sounds like you didn't - then do the above, but if you got it new from a pet store or fish store, just take a damp paper towel and wipe off any dust around the surfaces.

As far as what to do once the tank is all set up, you probably know about cycling the tank, right? If not, then this site will tell you just about all you need to know:
http://freshaquarium.about.com

Enjoy your new aquarium!
Nicole