Storing Ro and mixed water

[Psyire]

I actually read on RC where Randy (resident chemist) posted saying it is not necessary to mix or aerate your saltwater while storing. So long as it is done prior, it will be fine.

[cprowler]

I have 2 Rubbermaid Brute food safe trash cans, one for top up water and the other mixed for water changes. The mixed has a powerhead, heater and airstone and I use Kents salt. I also have lids on both to keep out crap and light.

I have had no problems with keeping the mixed for 3 or 4 weeks. The only problem I had was when I used Oceanic salt, I started to get a brown slime.

[TheReefGeek]

Why would you limit it to two weeks then? If you are limiting evaporation, aerating it, and heating it, why limit it?

[Ruth]

Personally I don't think you have to limit it to 2 weeks - that's just when I usually use it for water changes so have to mix up a new batch anyway. When I go away for work or holidays I always leave about 40 gallons of mixed and airated water for emergency anyway.

[EmilyB]

Stored saltwater that is heated goes funny ime. If I have saltwater left over after a change, I turn the heater off, and reheat before using.

Otherwise I keep the RO cold, heat it before a change, then add salt.