Set up questions

[tom reilly]

Am working on the new tank plumbing, hope to be wet soon.
Can I fill the tank and sump directly fromRODI unit and mix salt in tank? Or better to get out the 100 gal barrel and pre mix?
After cycle complete will order CUC . Do they get QT and if so how?

 

[RyanCSGO]

you can do whichever you prefer as far as the salt goes. I've done both, I like mixing it outside the tank but it makes no real difference imo.
as far as the CUC, personally I have never QT'd one, however I have heard horror stories about inverts bringing in disease, hopefully someone else can chime in more on that subject

 

[twobytwo]

You can mix in or out of the tank. When I started my tank, a friend recommended making SW outside, as it would help me get used to the process of making water for WC's. I started with 5gal Buckets - but it was taking forever to get through 150g (120 plus sump) so I got a 34g brute for mixing, which is what I would end up making water for water changes. 2 Maxijets at the bottom for mixing and when it's ready, I just hook up a hose to one, to pump the water into the tank.

 

[jsker]

I just filled the tank and turned on the power heads and filter and added the salt to the tank, the salt dissolved and I was in business. I waited a day and made adjustment to the salinity then added my rock to start the cycle.

 

[NanaReefer]

IMO start outside the tank. Several reasons why this is best. You'll find out your actual water volume. Important when it comes to dosing, as most doses are measured according to volume & not tank size.
Mixing is much easier and more efficient outside the tank. It must be stirred well. Very hard to accomplish in a tank.

 

[ReeferBob]

+1 to the 1st 3. Salt will mix 100% just sitting in a circulating tank by itself. Way less messy too!

 

[Dwb5]

I found it easier to mix inside the tank. But I would not put your sand or rock in until it was at the salinity that you desire.

 

[Diesel]

Out the tank IMO.
Have setup a few tanks myself but all were out the tank.
If using sand the freshwater will take a while before all the water mixed with the sand is salty.
Better Idea is calling a maintenance company that can bring you the desired water and 30 min BOOM you ready to cycle.
They should charge more than $2.00 per gallon.
No mess of mixing and the same day you're on the cycle program.

 

[reef_junkie]

Its preference but I like to batch my water and heat it before I fill the tank with it. I heat it so I don't get any sweating action going on.

 

[governorg]

I recently started my tank over and can tell you it is much easier prepping everything outside the tank before things go in. As some prior people posted, this will get you used to mixing the salt and water. In addition, you will be able to measure salinity a little easier. Regarding the CUC, I have usually acclimated them by floating them (floating in the bag in the tank to acclimate to water temp) then slowly dripping them with the tank water. Good luck with everything.

 

[FishOfHex]

Am working on the new tank plumbing, hope to be wet soon.
Can I fill the tank and sump directly fromRODI unit and mix salt in tank? Or better to get out the 100 gal barrel and pre mix?
After cycle complete will order CUC . Do they get QT and if so how?

Either way it doesnt matter if you dont have any livestock in the system. I always just fill with RO/DI and add salt. I guess whatever works for you

 

[tom reilly]

Thanks to all for good info.