How do I get rid of hard water build up in my tank?

Question

I have extremely hard water. There is about 6 inches of space between the top of my water level and the top of my tank. In that empty space I have HORRIBLE hard water build up. I scrub it weekly but can't keep up with it. Is there a better way to get rid of it that won't harm my turtle?

P.S. I've used all those 'water treatements' you get at pet stores already.

Answer 1

Use another source of water, and have a filtration system going in the tank.

Answer 2

If you have a glass tank, get a razor blade and scrape it off--you won't hurt the glass (it's the same method to get stuck-on food dislodged on glass stove tops). Don't use chemicals- not only do they not work, but they're toxic.

If it's an acrylic tank, you can get a hard-algae scraper made for acrylic that will work on hard water mineral deposits too from an aquarium shop. There is one made by the Kent brand that works VERY well and I've had much personal success with it.

Good luck.

Answer 3

Try scrubbing with vinegar.