Saltwater

[ehays1973]

I’ve been using saltwater from the local fish store for my water changes. I’ve read posts where some more experienced reefers mix their own water. Is that a better way to go and what salt mix is the best to use?

 

[gonzo620]

Most salts on the market are very comparable. Imo salt selection comes down to availablilty and price. However the first thing is a good source of water IE investing in an RODI unit.

 

[mich2599]

I’ve been using saltwater from the local fish store for my water changes. I’ve read posts where some more experienced reefers mix their own water. Is that a better way to go and what salt mix is the best to use?

Very easy to do. Just buy the salt a refractometer and get to mixing. Make sure to use RODI though. I wouldn’t trust buying water from my LF bc they don’t use RODI for their systems. There’s not a salt that’s the “best”. Many ppl use many salts with much success. I personally use Reef Crystals but will buy Red Sea Pro once i run out.

 

[Bayareareefer18]

I'm new to reefing but have made my own since day one. Its nice to have the capability of making water anytime you need day or night. Also making your own top off rodi water as needed.

Personally I use the red sea blue bucket.

Keep in mind that there are many quality salts out there but they do differ in parameters. If you decide to start making your own take into account the params of the water you are currently using and what the params are of the new salt mix

 

[ehays1973]

Thanks that helps. My local store has RODI water and salt. Been using the RODI for top offs and their salt for water changes. Wasn’t sure if using their RODI water and mixing my own salt was better.

 

[ehays1973]

I'm new to reefing but have made my own since day one. Its nice to have the capability of making water anytime you need day or night. Also making your own top off rodi water as needed.

Personally I use the red sea blue bucket.

Keep in mind that there are many quality salts out there but they do differ in parameters. If you decide to start making your own take into account the params of the water you are currently using and what the params are of the new salt mix

What parameters should I be checking. PH and salt content? Anything else?

 

[Hitman]

In my opinion the cheapest and best in the long run is to buy your own rodi system and the salt of your choice and may your own mix. I used to get everything from my local store then one night on a weekend I had a big issue and guess what no one was open at 9pm on a Saturday night and I had to wait till Monday. Well Monday can and I order a 5 stage rodi system from BRS and have never turned back.
If you have the room and the budget I highly recommend getting your own.

 

[Bayareareefer18]

What parameters should I be checking. PH and salt content? Anything else?

Alk mag and cal just to be sure the difference isn't huge. Some salts mix with higher values such as the red sea coral pro

 

[Hitman]

What parameters should I be checking. PH and salt content? Anything else?

Depends on your tank.
Fish only:
Salinity, temp, and Ammonia.

Fish and corals :
Salinity, Temp, NO3, PO4, Ammonia, CA, ALK, MG

 

[ehays1973]

Awesome thanks for the help everyone