Dirty Water

[nybyrne]

Well I keep my mixed saltwater in the garage in a 55 Gal tub. When I got home this morning I noticed that the top was off. My wife must of bumped it while she swept the floor. Now there is a dirty film on the top from the dust that went airborne when she swept. If I ran a filter with this water do you think it would be safe to use?

 

[bonermeister]

Eeek, that is a tough one. I personally wouldn't risk it and mix new water, but in reality it probably wouldn't hurt anything unless she was spraying 409 or other chemicals near the tub. To be on the safe side, dump it and start a new batch of water. Tell the old lady to go easy on the sweeping until you're done with your water change.

 

[nybyrne]

no just dust from the floor. I hate to throw it away it is like 60 gallons, what a waste

 

[goldrush]

How much will you have to throw away if it IS contaminated??

 

[wolffam]

I agree with above. If contaminated, even questionable, and the inhabitants start reacting to the water, it'll require an expedited water change, maybe several, with the possiblity of loss in the tank. Just for peace of mind, if it'd was me, I'd dispose of the water and make up a new batch. HTH