white scale on top of the aquarium

Question
QUESTION: I am having white scale on top of the light on my aquarium and on the outsides...not on the tank itself.  I never had this...what is it?  hard water and how is it getting to the top of everything?
ANSWER: Hi Carole
Yes, it's from the hard water.  I've got several tops/hoods caked in it.  I just did a water change in my brackish tank, and had to actually scrape off salt lol.  I'd say it's getting up there by condensation and little splashes/droplets from the filter-especially when the water level gets a bit lower, tends to agitate the water more/causes more splashing.  At least that's the conclusion I've come to, I've wondered the same thing before.  A vinegar & water solution may help to get it off, if it's not that built up.  Also you could try a razor blade and scrape it.

Good luck!!

Christy

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: thanks for the quick response.  I just realized I got 'bubbles' and that is when this started, so I am guessing it is splashing, but all the way on top of the light?

Answer
Honestly, I can't explain it either :)  I really think it's just a combination of the humidity(warm water and heat from the lights), condensation, and splashing/water droplets.  Try looking on the back of the lights, especially where the filter is.  That one's obviously from the filter overspray.  I've noticed mine tend to follow in the same area where the filter is up to the top of the lights.

Christy