Low on Mag?

[EDJFA]

I just mixed up a new batch of saltwater. IO Reef Crystals. Purchased last week. Tested my water to see where my levels were. My magnesium is low. Water change should help with that.

Just for kicks, I tested my new water. Salinity is spot on. Magnesium, however, is way low at 1020. Tested again because I thought there's no way a salt called Reef Crystals would be that low.

Test two confirmed 1020. That's obviously not going to help with my low magnesium.

I didn't test calcium or alk on the new water.

Has anyone else who uses IO/RC seen their newly mixed water with one of the big three that low? Is that normal?

 

[Schplitter]

Yes. I have had all kinds of results from all kinds of salts. My last batch of IO was so freaking high on phosphates that after emailing IO for 3 months and sending them samples I threw out 5 buckets. Could have save it to throw on the driveway I guess.

I also had a batch of RC that had 5 Dkh. Pretty ridiculous.

Whenever I open a bag/bucket of whatever salt I use I mix up 30-40 gallons and test it after a couple of days with every test kit I have. If I have to I adjust as necessary.

 

[mpgrant77]

I have had a bag that when I mixed it the water was actually dirty. I have also had a bag that the Alk was around 5-6kh. I test my new saltwater mixes all the time just to make sure.