Mixing Saltwater

[ChandlerTingle]

Is it ok to put in RODI Water first then adding the salt into the tank with two powerheads then adding the live sand once the salt has been mixed and finally the PVC Pipe? I’m stuck with RODI water in 8 five gallon buckets with lids so just trying to figure out which way would be better

 

[DeepintheReef]

On a new tank, absolutely!

 

[ChandlerTingle]

On a new tank, absolutely!

So I would put 19, 1/2 cups of Instant Ocean into the 38 gallon tank to reach that specific gravity range? This is my first time doing this so just making sure

 

[DeepintheReef]

So I would put 19, 1/2 cups of Instant Ocean into the 38 gallon tank to reach that specific gravity range? This is my first time doing this so just making sure

Start with 18 and then test your salinity once it’s fully mixed up. Add more salt if needed

 

[ChandlerTingle]

Start with 18 and then test your salinity once it’s fully mixed up. Add more salt if needed

Ok gotcha, with two pumps how long you think it would take?

 

[ChandlerTingle]

https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/product/imagitarium-aquarium-power-head
Should I get one or two these?

 

[Rollins]

I would wait at least 1/2 - 1 hour or so before re-checking salinity each time I always start with less, and make minor adjustments at the the end when trying to hit the 35pp 1.26 mark before water changes. The more flow the better. Look into Tunze 6015 or 6025 or bigger power heads, used are just fine, might be worth the extra investment long term.

 

[DeepintheReef]

I really am not a fan of the power heads at petco/pet smart. Just cheap manufacturing and short shelf life. If you can find used equipment on marketplace it may be a better route.

I have had decent luck with jebao brand wave makers off Amazon if you’re on a budget as some of the household names in reefing can be a bit pricey for people new to the hobby. Again, you can check for used equipment here or on places like Facebook marketplace.

Take your time and don’t rush putting livestock into the tank. It’s advice that’s often ignored by newbies but it’s valuable to wait and do things correctly with proper equipment the first go-around.

 

[ChandlerTingle]

I really am not a fan of the power heads at petco/pet smart. Just cheap manufacturing and short shelf life. If you can find used equipment on marketplace it may be a better route.

I have had decent luck with jebao brand wave makers off Amazon if you’re on a budget as some of the household names in reefing can be a bit pricey for people new to the hobby. Again, you can check for used equipment here or on places like Facebook marketplace.

Take your time and don’t rush putting livestock into the tank. It’s advice that’s often ignored by newbies but it’s valuable to wait and do things correctly with proper equipment the first go-around.

Amazon product
Would these pumps be ideal to mix the salt in the tank? I just want to make sure all the salt gets mixed and doesn't gather near the bottom

 

[DeepintheReef]

Amazon product
Would these pumps be ideal to mix the salt in the tank? I just want to make sure all the salt gets mixed and doesn't gather near the bottom

Sure they’ll mix water. The suction cup will also crust and harden up after a few months and they won’t stick to the glass anymore. I would look for a wave maker with a magnet mount.