Mixing salt water for too long

Randy Holmes-Farley · Jul 30, 2015

FWIW, I use IO for about a month after making it up. I do not stir during this time, but that's largely to simply save electricity. I also do not heat it, again cost reasons.

A heater or pump (which typically gets warm) can initiate precipitation because calcium carbonate is less soluble in warmer water. That's why pumps and heaters get coated with calcium carbonate.

jason142 · Jul 30, 2015

I have been using TMPR for years and mix up 45 gallons at a time using over a course of two weeks. I keep a ph, airstone, and heater on at all times and never had an issue with smell or cloudiness. It actually appears much clearer to me the longer in mixes.

dangros · Aug 30, 2015

spoke with spectrapure on the slime issue. They said it was due to bacteria getting into the water. Even though I put lids on the Brute cans, I suspect some is floating around in the garage. I never had the issue years ago but maybe it was cleaner due to the fact that the previous house was purchased new. I also used TM back then but I doubt the salt is causing it. My current house was built in 86 and there are mildewy smelling cabinets in the garage (taking those stinkers down soon!)
The guy from SP, said that they are actually working on a new product which is an RO filter powered by a booster pump which would solve the issue (at least in the rodi storage). Personally, I think it's a big workaround. For now, I'll make what I need and that's it.
I have a feeling that this slime is being introduced into my tank - which manifests itself as a brownish hair alg on my powerheads and high flow areas of the rock.

WindeyD · Aug 30, 2015

I use reef crystals and generally mix a batch every two weeks; I mix in a 30 gal brute with a Mag 5 running 24/7. The Mag does get some calcium formation (keeps the water at 78-80 degrees too), but this has worked for me.

pompeyjohn · Sep 6, 2019

I have a tall 40 gallon container with a load of precipitation in it due to over-mixing red sea salt. What is the best way to clean out all the precipitation? I can't physically reach down into the container to wipe it down. I was thinking of submerging a TLF reactor filled with carbon into it, then when it the water is fairly clear draining the tank, then rinsing with tap water, then air dry, then refill. Anyone have a better solution? Thanks.