natural salt water

[bb7551]

How long can I keep natural salt water stored? You see, I am about 9 miles or so away from a beach and can deffinatly get natural sea water. I was just wondering how long I can keep it stored, like If I get a 55 gallon drum full and don't use it for a month, or three, it would be OK right? Thanks, John

 

[shanev]

I would think if its not air tight I wouldn't use it over a month old. Also getting it right off the beach area I would think it could be contaminated, but I tend to be over cautious.

 

[bb7551]

it would be in air tight containers, And would prolly have a cheap power head in it, to keep it from stagnating. John

 

[reefnut]

I'm with Shane on the cautious side... Just because it's NSW don't necessarily mean that it would be better that good old mixed SW .

 

[shanev]

Also where are you located? Im not sure if all sea-water is basically the same but if your in California same, Im not sure if the naturally cold water there would have the same elements in it as a reef, but Im totally thinking out loud here, I dont know for sure. I get salt that makes 150 gallons of water for 35.00,
35.00 is well worth peace of mind.

 

[bb7551]

well, around here the cheapest place I could find was 22.50 plus tax for a bag that makes 50 gallons unless I prder on the net. John

 

[shanev]

where are you located? Maybe someone can point you in the right direction.

 

[beaslbob]

I would not keep changing out you tank water just to be changing the water. I would fill the tank and then replace the water that evaporates. Storeing sea water in any other container than your tank will result in water which is different than the water in you tank. If you feel the need to replace water in the tank then go back to the sea and get some fresh.

 

[bb7551]

I live in south jersey, and I do NOT support chain stores, I may get something off the net everyonce and a while but that is it. John

 

[lemonshark]

I don’t recommend collecting water from the beach. I live less than a mile from the sea and I collect some things from it(Corals, anemones, rocks, etc). I have notice that water from the sea will stink if kept more than three days if something is in the water. It just got too much bacteria that causes it to smell really bad. Additionally you may run a risk of polluting your tank. Try keeping five gallons of water and see how long it takes before it start to go bad.
I buy salt for $17 that will fill up 55gls and it is safer.