curing saltwater for changes?

[dlsmith21]

I was at my LFS the other day and was in a discussion about changes with the owner. He said he never cures his water and his tanks look great. He has a show tank with massive fish that are all fat and healthy. Does anyone else do this? Is it a "have to do" for curing or can you actually use the water minutes after mixing?

 

[Icefire]

As long all is dissolved.

 

[jim48]

As long as all the salt mix is dissolved and the salinity is correct there should be no problems. I've had no problems with doing it this way.

 

[tk1360]

as long as all the salt is dissolved and the temp/salinity is correct there should be no real "curing" issues. Personally I set up the water the night before I plan to do the change and leave it over night. I have had good results so far and as long as I maintain this current tank I see no reason to change. I guess truthfully because I leave it overnight I have an 8-10 hrs curing time.

 

[mwwhite]

I was told to agitate/aerate the water for 24 hrs before using. Freshly-mixed salt can release Ammonia.

 

[drummereef]

I let mine circulate for 24 hours before I do the change. There is evidence to show that newly mixed seawater is toxic to fish. Can't find the article, but I believe it was Randy from the Chemistry Forum who said this.

 

[rustybucket145]

I've done it both ways and can't seem to see a difference. In some cases you just need some water asap (ie. in instance of tank flood..etc) but if given the choice I like to let it set at least overnight to come up to temp and for everything to dissolve properly.

 

[mistergerardob]

if you are using ro di water using it after mixing could be ok. but if you are using tap water then you want to wait for a least 24 hours

 

[KJB32]

I usually just stir it till it dissolves. But you need to be sure the temp/salinity match b/4 dumping it in.

 

[an411]

What do you use to mix the water and salt in a garbage container or is there something else that would be recommended.

 

[rustybucket145]

Rubbermaid trashcan here. Works great. Fish tank use only (no trash EVER) and I store it in the garage when not in use.

Note: It's a good idea to mark the top and sides of the can with a sharpie saying something like.... DO NOT USE!! FISH TANK USE ONLY!!!... etc. This will keep others from using it for trash...etc and you having to buy a new can.