Water Clarity

[bcspeed34]

I filled my tank with saltwater (mixed in) and my CaribSea live sand about 4 days ago. I mixed in about 3 cups of salt as my salinity was too low (1.020, now up to 1.024). Today I also added about 20 lbs of Fiji live rock as you can see to the right of the picture. What I want to know is, what should I do right now? Should I let it clear or turn on the pumps and see if that does anything?

Also, I tried plugging my protein skimmer and had the worst day ever with my aquarium, the bottom hose attachment (hang on skimmer) popped out and sprayed salt water all over me, twice. I am going to the LFS tomorrow and buy a new one, any recommendations?

 

[lion_crazz]

Turn your pumps on and let the water mix. That will clear it up in no time for you.
What is the size of the tank?

 

[aztec reef]

also if there's a way that you can run carbon for a couple days, that will help alot to crystalize the water.... like Lion said let it circulate and it should be gone..

 

[bcspeed34]

Its a 5' by 2' high 120 gallon. I'll go turn on the pumps right now, and when I go to the LFS tomorrow I'll look up on some carbon. Hopefully it will be a bit clearer when I wake up!

 

[bcspeed34]

And about 8 hours later:

Do any of you know of any good ways to clean the inside of the tank? I heard new sponges work pretty well.

 

[reeffreakgeek]

A mag float...all the LFS sells them.

 

[ruaround]

magnet cleaners (as mentioned), a brillo pad and a razor blade... all useful tools...

 

[lion_crazz]

Originally Posted by BCspeed34
Its a 5' by 2' high 120 gallon. I'll go turn on the pumps right now, and when I go to the LFS tomorrow I'll look up on some carbon. Hopefully it will be a bit clearer when I wake up!
As far as skimmers for that size tank, I would look at ETSS skimmers, ASM's, Deltec's - all larger quality skimmers that will do a good job and be worth the money.
I personally like ETSS skimmers. They have always performed very well on my tanks.

 

[bcspeed34]

I went to the LFS, picked up some carbon, and then looked at the skimmers. Sadly, I do not have enough cash right now for a new one thats suitable, so I have decided that I am going to just replace my tube on my protein skimmer. I looked closely and one of the knots is broken off, which led to my leakage.
I also picked up this really nice algae scrubber today, and it cleaned all the gunk right off! (I was too stupid to clean it BEFORE I added my remaining 40lbs of live sand)

 

[lion_crazz]

Originally Posted by BCspeed34
I went to the LFS, picked up some carbon, and then looked at the skimmers. Sadly, I do not have enough cash right now for a new one thats suitable, so I have decided that I am going to just replace my tube on my protein skimmer. I looked closely and one of the knots is broken off, which led to my leakage.
I also picked up this really nice algae scrubber today, and it cleaned all the gunk right off! (I was too stupid to clean it BEFORE I added my remaining 40lbs of live sand)
If you do not have the money to afford a new one, buy one used. There are skimmers on here that people are selling all of the time, and ask your LFS if they know of anyone selling skimmers as well. Check the classified ads of your newspaper as well. There are always people around here selling complete set-ups. Instead of buying a whole new set-up, just buy the skimmer off the person.

 

[bcspeed34]

Alright, I have been looking around, but there are no good hang on skimmers for me right now (I already have a crowded sump). Tomorrow I am seeing if I cant get some really good tape or glue and rubber to seal up the hose on the skimmer, as it's the only problem at the moment, that one little leak spot.
Also, an updated tank pic. Notice the new sand level from above in comparison

 

[d0 thy d3w]

be greatful for how clear you water is!! lol..i only say this becus i just had to swap to a new tank..and mine looks like it might need a biohazard sticker!