instant ocean hydrometer reading

[gravismaximus]

i feel like a dummy asking this but i got a instant ocean hydrometer for when i make up saltwater. i went to use it tonight and i dont know how full is it spose to be, theres no fill to line. i would think right to the top right?
im kinda hoping i dont because the reading i took (filling to the top) said it was at 1.031

is there a way i can calibrate it? my floating hydrometer says its at 1.023

 

[meowzer]

Get a refractometer...LOL....fill it all the way, and kinda tap it to make sure the needle isn't stuck
OH...did I mention you should get a refractometer

 

[yearofthenick]

The floating hydrometers are far more accurate than the instant ocean one that you fill. Cheaper too.

But if you have the money, get a refractometer, it is by far the most accurate.

 

[gravismaximus]

silly me, made sure i got the tiny micro bubbles off the needle this time and much better.
on a side note after adding stress coat to replacement water how long should you wait to put it in the tank for the removal of the chlorine to take affect?

 

[jackri]

I was just going to say fill it all of the way up, theres a hole on the side and will self regulate how full it needs to be from there.

 

[olemiss]

Originally Posted by gravismaximus
http:///forum/post/3210272
silly me, made sure i got the tiny micro bubbles off the needle this time and much better.
on a side note after adding stress coat to replacement water how long should you wait to put it in the tank for the removal of the chlorine to take affect?
Are you using tap water? If so, make the switch to ro/di- it will save you from numerous headaches down the road. I've never had to remove chlorine- don't have an answer. Refractometers are a sound purchase.

 

[mjm889]

i would also make sure you rinse out your hydrometer after every use so the needle doesnt get stuck

 

[gravismaximus]

making DI water- way to much work/time

per gallon (boil and collect the condensation)
buying DI water from the store--not on a budget with 15% bi weekly water changes would be 30 a month for di water

i hate paying for city water as it is.
RO water, i could buy a unit (1 time cost) to make it but then ive read not to put pure ro water in tank, that i should mix it with some per say bad water (tap) to make it more like natraul sea water, i have a huge problum do things like this, didnt i just ro that same water---its like wiping befor you poop. it dont make sense

it may be better but i am going to stick with tap and stress coat for now.
thanks for all the help