Water storage question

[MuShu]

When I mix my water, I'm keeping it in a 12 gallon rubbermaid container. I normally change 5-6 gallons a week on my 55gal aquarium, but I keep 10gal on hand. Is it okay for this water to just sit, or should I keep a power head in the container since I am using less per week than I make? If so, which powerhead would work for a small container?

 

[Flippers4pups]

I clean powerhead in mine 24/7. Some don't. Main thing is to keep a tight fitting lid on it, to keep it clean.

 

[snowbomb101]

Definitely keep the water moving and I would monitor or even control the temp. Some salt manufacturers even state that you should use the water within hours of mixing. I haven't heard a good pro or con to this argument. I use what I mix and then toss the rest but I do make sure the water temp and salinity are good before introducing to my tank.

 

[lespaul339]

I always keep a powerhead and heater in my storage water. I like to keep the water circulating, and I like it to be up to temp in case i need to do an emergency water change for some reason. Plus, it helps that it's up to temp for my regular water changes too.

 

[thegrun]

It depends upon your salt mix. If your salt does not contain organics it can be stored indefinitely without heat or water movement. Stored water should be aerated before use however. Salts with organics in them need water movement.