Mixing

Manuelnvrz · May 12, 2013

I have a quick question about mixing salt, can I still mix salt in a Rubbermaid tub WITHOUT a powerhead, I was thinking a very small empty HOB filter just for flow... I hope this isn't a dumb question or self explanatory

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DerekFF · May 12, 2013

What's wrong with a power head? Hob will work but poorly unless its a big hob for the tub

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Manuelnvrz · May 12, 2013

I don't have my power head just yet, and I'm only going to be mixing a little less than 10 gallons, it's for a 10 gallon nano

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DerekFF · May 12, 2013

Are you in a hurry to get it mixed? I'd just go buy a powerhead tomorrow lol. Well whatever the theory behind your plan it will work, just no where near as well as a power head. Heck you could mix it with your hand if you wanted.

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Manuelnvrz · May 12, 2013

Haha I want to hurry but I can wait, just real eager I guess

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Manuelnvrz · May 12, 2013

How long would it take without a power head and by hand?

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DerekFF · May 12, 2013

Depends on the salt but maybe 5 minutes. Stir it real fast then come back in a few minutes and give it a whirl again. I wouldn't do this if the tank was fully stocked as any salt that doesn't dissolve can really irritate livestock and corals. But if its for a first fill just mix it until you don't see salt on the bottom.

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Manuelnvrz · May 12, 2013

It's instant ocean, I'll give it a shot and check with my refractometer, thanks, if not ill just have to wait til my hydor nano comes in

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Reefing Madness · May 12, 2013

HOB isnt going to mix the water/salt together. You could mix it up your self for a few minutes and then let the filter just keep the water moving for you, as you should let it set up for 24 hours prior to using it.

Manuelnvrz · May 12, 2013

Reefing Madness said:
HOB isnt going to mix the water/salt together. You could mix it up your self for a few minutes and then let the filter just keep the water moving for you, as you should let it set up for 24 hours prior to using it.

Why 24 hours?

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Reefing Madness · May 12, 2013

It lets the gas exchange happen, to properly aerate the water.

Manuelnvrz · May 12, 2013

Even for such a small quantity?

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Reefing Madness · May 12, 2013

Your call.

Manuelnvrz · May 12, 2013

Alright, thanks for the info

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Rikerbear · May 12, 2013

That small of water you can mix it by hand and use it fairly quickly. I do it all the time and have for years with zero issues.
If you do this during a WC in an established tank than you want to make SURE the salt is all mixed and the PH, SG, and Temp all match up.....if however you are just filling a tank than you have a lot less to worry about.
:tongue: