Aging saltwater

[AllenFord_SC]

mdavis,

[welcome]

I have no other input.

 

[ACBlinky]

Re: Aging saltwater

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=6706830#post6706830 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Gluestick
What kind of powerhead do you use to airate you saltwater while you are aging it? I keep reading about aging your saltwter before adding to tank for water changes. Can someone explain to me their process so I have an idea?:rollface:

I use an old Hagen 402 PH and an Ebo-Jager heater in a 20g Rubbermaid bin. My 'process' is probably pretty much the same as other people's... I fill the bin with water, add salt, turn on the heater and PH and allow it to sit for at least 24h for all the above stated reasons. I often prepare the next batch right after the water change and let it mix for a week, just because it's easier and it's there in case of emergency.

 

[aquawolf]

I use a maxijet 1200, without the aerator, in a 20g bucket. I mix the water the night before, in order to dissolve the crystals as best as it can before adding to the tank. I always end up with some left over so I keep the maxijet in the container stirring that up for the rest of the week until I had fresh RO and salt to make the next batch.

 

[mdavis203]

Thanks for the welcome, Allen!!

 

[WaterKeeper]

The big thing here is the way salt mixes are buffered. The manufactures need to play a little alchemy to get the pH right. The reason one just can't dry out real ocean water is that the carbonate chemistry goes to pot. Anyone ever ordered a bottle of calcium bicarbonate powder?

Anyhow, the buffering system used in modern salt mixes is pretty good but it still take some time to reach equilibrium with the carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. It is not crucial but it is best to age the water for awhile. Just like a fine wine, salt mix needs time to breathe.

 

[Gluestick]

Okay guys thanks for all the info. Do I need to keep a lid on the h2o?

 

[markandkristen]

i guess im wierd i sometimes age mine for 72 hours. but thats just my opinion

 

[WaterKeeper]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=6724759#post6724759 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by Gluestick
Okay guys thanks for all the info. Do I need to keep a lid on the h2o?

It is wise to cover it as it prevents dust and other household contaminant out. It also lessens evaporation but always be sure to check the salinity of any stored water before adding it to your tank.