When mixing salt and water for your aquarium.  The first thing you need to do is work out the volume of that take to gauge just how much sea salt in your aquarium is needed.

 

When measuring add a little less salt than the your calculated amount.  If measuring in Litres you will need to measure the length x width x height in centimeters, then divide it by 1000 to give you the amount in litres.

 

Using reverse osmosis water is your best bet!  (It won’t have the impurities of tap water and is just a great idea.)  Grab a mixing bucket then pour the reverse osmosis water into your bucket and add the amount of salt you worked out previously for that amount of water.  Then stir the mixture (making sure to stir it well).  You will then turn on the air pump and heater until the salt level pH and temperature are correct.  Do not use the water until these parameters are correct.

 

If you have chosen to do a 10 percent or less water change the water can be used immediately after the salt has dissolved.  Though if it’s a large water change it will be best to prolong the water change for 8 to 12 hours.  This allows the sea salt to mix properly whilst also allowing the temperature to stabilize.

 

After this time has passed, make sure to measure the mixture with your hydrometer and one of two thing will occur.  The SG reading will be too low or high.  If the level is low, then measure just a little bit more salt and add it in the mixture and leave that salt to dissipate so the temperature will stabilize.  Then you will want to test the water again and if the same problem occurs just repeat this step until you get the desired salt levels.

If however the SG reading is high, ad more reverse osmosis water and wait for a little to test the water again.  Then test the water and if you test the water SG is still too high repeat this step.

If you keep notes whilst mixing your saltwater for your aquarium you will be able to mix the batches in the future with more ease. However it is always suggest to check the SG regularly the first couple of times until you really have the hang of how to do this.  You really want to get your mix just right for your tank!

 

For some great videos on Saltwater Aquariums check out our entire site! 

 

Also make sure to check out our awesome full professional guide on keeping a Saltwater Aquarium at http://www.exclusivefishfilms.com

Good luck and enjoy.
Paul Talbot