Old Salt

[willy0508]

A little over year ago i had to break my tank down because of a move to a new house, luckily not much in it as i had just started. Now the the honey-do list is complete and work has slowed i have time to set it back up.

I've had a bag of IO Reef Crystals in the basement for that time, is it still good to use? It's been zip-tied shut but it's not in a buck, just the plastic bag it came in. Can I still use it or should I just buy a new bag?

My new RO/DI should be in soon and I'm itching to get the cycling process stared again.

thanks!

 

[billdogg]

As long as it's not rock solid you will be fine. If it is hardened, it may still be useable but you wil have to check the levels of Ca and Alk (especially Alk) because it is liable to precipitate out. (and then dot dissolve, leaving you with what amounts to sand (CaCO3) in the bottom of your mixing barrel

 

[Pife]

The alk on the old salt that I have used has always been way low.

 

[willy0508]

Thanks, I may just get a new bag since I'll be needing more anyway. Just thought that this may be good to do the cycle with then start with new once the cycle is done and i start regular water changes. May di that and just keep an eye on alk.

If i do see it as low will I need raise it during/after the cycle or will water changes handle it once i start with a new bag?

 

[acabgd]

I think it would be ok for the i initial fill...

 

[Dr. Reef]

it wont be bad for cycling the tank and after cycle you will have to change water anyways so why waste $60. during cycle as long as salinity is 1.026 and temp is 78-82 degrees rest wont matter.

 

[willy0508]

Thanks all. I'll use during the cycle and start with new once the H2O changes kick in. Now to get things going. Working on my rock work while waiting on new RODI.

 

[Reef Freakz]

It should be fine to use. I have used salt that was rock hard. As long as it is not contaminated by foreign materials it should be just fine, although it may be more work for you if it is hard.