1.024 to 1.026 is the recommended range but they state that 1.5 lbs of IO to 5 gallons yields 1.022. That’s 3 cups IO or 24 oz. to 5 gallonsmy tanks are consistently at 1.024-1.026 are u scraping excess off the top? I don't so we probably end up adding the same amount. if my mixture is too salty I can always add fresh water to the mixture until I get it right, I rather had to add more water than add more salt.