Aging Saltwater question

[JEFFR259]

Will saltwater aging in my 5 gallons buckets actually go bad after a certain number of days? I try to make the water 1-2 days in advance (with circulation in the buckets via PH), however, sometimes I get lazy (guilty!) and sometimes I can't get to doing the wc. I will throw out the water after 3 days, but will it actually last longer and is there a threat to the tank by using the water if it's like 4-5 days aged?

Thanks!

 

[IslandCrow]

Oh, don't throw out 3 day old water. It should be good for months (or longer). I mix my water in a 32 gal Brute trashcan and use it over the course of about 3 weeks, but I'd be perfectly comfortable using it 3 months later.

 

[alfani]

after mixing the salt I have it sit for a day before putting it into the tank so don't throw the water out, it's good

 

[bzotter]

haha 3 days? save yourself the trouble of making new water. as long as it's covered to keep lots of crap from landing in the bucket (even so, easily removed with a net), I would feel comfortable putting it in my tank months later!

 

[billdogg]

+1 on all of the above! i make mine in a 55g barrel - keep it covered with a ph and heater - it'll be good for as long as you need it to be (within reason0

 

[centipede]

It's also good to have a powerhead to keep it oxygenated.