Aquariumaker.com - Aquarium Maintenance

ACRYLIC CARE AND MAINTENANCE

To insure maximum acrylic viewing panel, or aquarium longevity, it is important to conduct proper maintenance and not to cause premature degradation.

The preferred method for routine cleaning (removal of finger prints, smudges, etc.) is with lukewarm water, a mild soap or detergent, and a non-abrasive flannel cloth, chamois, or sponge. Care should be taken not to rub dirt or other particulate against the acrylic as this will abrade the surface. Removal of marine growth on viewing panel wet sides, or aquarium interiors, may be accomplished by using a loose knotted nylon material.

NEVER use household cleaners, scouring compounds, glass cleaners, bathroom cleaners, abrasive pads, wood or metal scrappers, alcohol, or solvents such as acetone, carbon tetrachchloride, methyl ethyl ketone, or paint thinner on acrylic.

Anti-static acrylic polishes, which are available from most acrylic distributors, may be utilized to maintain the glossy surfaces of acrylic. These polishes may also be used to remove most minor scratches. Use a soft flannel cloth, or chamois, to apply a thin even coat of the polish to the acrylic. Let the coat of polish dry, then lightly buff with a clean flannel cloth. Do not use household furniture spray or automotive waxes for this purpose.

More substantial scratches may be removed by hand polishing with very fine grit polishing paste specifically made for use with acrylic. Apply the paste with a damp flannel cloth, cross-hatching the area of the scratch. First rub parallel to the scratch, then perpendicular to the scratch, repeat the process until the scratch is gone. Several applications may be necessary to completely remove deeper scratches.

Some repairs may be made to acrylic viewing panels and aquariums. Repairs requiring sanding, grinding, filling and re-polishing should only be done by professionals. Improper, or poorly done repairs will cause crazing and degradation, which will lead to fracturing and ultimately to failure.

Since acrylic is a thermoplastic material it can be warped, distorted, or burned by exposure to excessive heat. High temperature sources should not be placed close proximity to acrylic viewing panels, or aquariums. Open flame, space heaters, or photo floodlights should never be allowed to be adjacent to, or in direct contact with acrylic viewing panels or aquariums. Excessive heat and high temperatures (over 165 degrees F ), must be avoided at all times.

Acrylic viewing panels and aquariums are covered with self-adhering paper or film to protect them from scratches during shipment. This covering should not be left on for prolonged periods of time after delivery (no more than 30 days). Viewing panels and aquarium should not be hydro tested with the covering in place, nor should they be exposed to, or stored in, long term direct sunlight. These conditions may result in solidification of the coverings adhesive making removal difficult.