Ooops! Thermometer mishap!

Buddyboy · #1 08-15-2006, 03:11 AM

Just broke my thermometer a few minutes ago. I didn't see anything ooze into the tank, but a bunch of little balls fell into the sandbed. I tried to get most of them but there are some still around. Do I have anything to worry about? Are they lead balls? Any ideas??

Bud

Kabong · #2 08-15-2006, 04:27 AM

Im not sure if it it will work, But I'd try a magnet to see if that will pick them up.

Buddyboy · #3 08-15-2006, 04:35 AM

Good idea. Unfortunately, when I tried to use the Magfloat, they weren't attracted to it. Any other thoughts? Anyone have any ideas what these balls are made of?

Sebae · #4 08-15-2006, 04:47 AM

Take apair of pliers and squeeze one. If it '' mushes '' and goes flat it could be lead . Also if it is a dark grey and scratches easily showing shiny metal underneath it is probably lead. Definitely remove it from the tank.

DanG · #5 08-15-2006, 02:23 PM

You could check the web for the MSDS of that brand of thermometer. www.msds.com has the most up to date list.

Buddyboy · #6 08-15-2006, 04:31 PM

Looks like I panicked a bit! I tried the ole Magfloat trick again and it worked! I was able to use it to attract all the little balls that the baster had missed. What a pain though! Maybe i'll buy a digital therm next.

Thanks again for all your suggestions!!

Murminator · #7 08-15-2006, 05:47 PM

I think those little silver balls will be mercury... which I think will be highly toxic I would do a watter change and vaccum up the area where were