Mixing tank salt mix question

[Carl Salamone]

I have a 50 gallon mixing tank for salt mixing that will take approximately 3 months for me to use (continuous water changes). I'm trying to decide between regular instant ocean and IO reef crystals. Some online have said the extra additives in RC break down over time and thus the water should be used shortly after mixing. Anyone have thoughts on this? I like the higher calcium offered by RC, but need something that can handle a 3 month shelf life.

 

[Brew12]

I have a 50 gallon mixing tank for salt mixing that will take approximately 3 months for me to use (continuous water changes). I'm trying to decide between regular instant ocean and IO reef crystals. Some online have said the extra additives in RC break down over time and thus the water should be used shortly after mixing. Anyone have thoughts on this? I like the higher calcium offered by RC, but need something that can handle a 3 month shelf life.

Personally, I wouldn't worry about it too much. I believe some of the extra "vitamins" they add will break down over time but I doubt it will be an issue. There are people who set up a tank using reef crystals and only do very rare water changes. In my opinion, if it is safe for a few months with fish swimming in it, it is safe in a storage tank.

 

[Best Fish-Jake]

Personally, I wouldn't worry about it too much. I believe some of the extra "vitamins" they add will break down over time but I doubt it will be an issue. There are people who set up a tank using reef crystals and only do very rare water changes. In my opinion, if it is safe for a few months with fish swimming in it, it is safe in a storage tank.

+1 BRS made a good video of storing salt water long term

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

I'm not a fan of reef crystals for this reason. I used normal IO for 20 years and preferred it.

The concerns are two fold. I want to store water and not keep it stirred (aerated) and if there is organic matter in it, it has the potential to become anaerobic.

Second, if the vitamins ever were of any benefit (not clear), they won't be providing that benefit once degraded by bacteria.