Saltwater mixture storage duration investigated | BRStv delves into duration of saltwater storage
In a recent investigation, eight popular saltwater mix brands were tested to determine their stability during storage. The brands included Instant Ocean Reef Crystals, Instant Ocean Standard, Red Sea Blue Bucket, Red Sea Coral Pro, HW Reefer, Brightwell Aquatics NeoMarine, Tropic Marine Classic, and Tropic Marine Pro Salts.
Each brand was mixed to a specific gravity of 1.026 or 35 parts per thousand. The saltwater was then left loosely sealed without further water circulation or heat. This simulates real-world conditions where aquarists may not constantly circulate or heat their saltwater reservoirs.
Stable levels through storage were expected with all the salt mixes tested, making them suitable for storage or use with an auto water exchange system. However, it's important to note that each brand may behave differently, and it's advised to pick a salt that matches your desired parameters.
The Red Sea Coral Pro salt, known for its high saturation of calcium and alkalinity levels, showed the biggest change in levels throughout storage. To avoid precipitation of calcium and alkalinity, Red Sea recommends a specific procedure: first mix the salt into water, then add calcium separately, ensuring thorough mixing and gradual addition to prevent precipitation.
Changes in calcium levels were minimal and within the testing margin of error for most brands. However, changes in alkalinity were more noticeable and provided a clearer picture of how each salt mix held up to storage. The Red Sea Coral Pro salt, due to its high saturation levels, showed the most significant changes in alkalinity.
It's essential to keep the reservoir closed or covered to mitigate evaporation and out of large temperature swings. For the Red Sea Coral Pro salt, Red Sea specifically instructs users to mix the salt for 2 hours (no more than 4), heat the water, and use it.
Join the R2R conversation on how long to store saltwater, and watch the BRStv Investigates video on heated and circulated premixed saltwater storage to learn more about its longevity. A complementary BRS Investigates video is also available, testing the same salt mixes with added heat and circulation throughout the storage and testing process.
Test kits used for calcium and alkalinity measurements had an accuracy range of +/- 0.5 dKh Alkalinity and +/- 10-15 parts per million (PPM) of calcium. The results of this study can help aquarists make informed decisions about their choice of salt mix and storage practices.
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