Addind Salt

[adamc1303]

I was wondering when performing a water change and adding salt why is it important to let the salt air out with a PH at least 24 hours prior to adding the saltwater to the tank? What is the down side or what negative things can happen if it is just disolved in water and added to the tank?

 

[bigpete]

i reccomend you buy pruified salt water at your LFS. i have done it for years and have never come across any ph problems(or any with nitrite,trate,and amonia). mixing your own salt water just has to many risks(just my opinion).

 

[adamc1303]

Well I never have had any problems, it's just the lfs told me to disolve some slat in a big cup npt even a bucket and dump it in so I did so for the past 9 months now. But I read a post and it was mentioned that the hobbiest aired the alst out with a PH "Power Head" for 24 hours before adding and I was wondering why?

 

[scubadoo]

PH, salnity, etc will adjust in about 24 hour period with a power head for circulation. You can then test to see if the ph, salnity, etc is in the appropriate range for your system.
I respectfully disagree with the earlier poster as I would NEVER add anything to my system where I did not have control over the type of salt and/or quality of water (RO/DI) used in the mixture. I would also need to know that the filters on the unit were properly maintained, etc.
JMO

 

[adamc1303]

Filters on what unit?

 

[airforceb2]

The RO/DI filter. The carbon filters and RO membrane need to be changed regularly.
The salt must be mixed for a day so the oxygen/carbon dioxide can stabilize. Once they stabilize, the pH will be stable. If immediately put in the tank, you may have some issues.