Storing Ro and mixed water

Squiddy · #1 03-21-2006, 01:48 AM

I keep salt water made up in a 20 gal trash can from Canadian Tire. I've got a powerhead, heater and airstone in there and I notice that after a week or so, there is a slight slime on the power cords. I use an RO/DI filter and IO salt. No white ring but I'm not sure what the slime is.

Ruth · #2 03-21-2006, 02:36 AM

IMO you can keep mixed up salt water for up to 2 weeks as long as it is being constantly mixed with a powerhead and heated and your container is covered to prevent crap getting in and evaporation. I mean really - think about it - after it goes into our aquariums what is it other than heated and mixed salt water. A lot of people use the rubbermaid containers as well as the rubber livestock water tubs for sumps and fuges - again filled with mixed and heated salt water.

Psyire · #3 03-21-2006, 03:56 AM

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.

TheReefGeek · #4 03-21-2006, 05:29 AM

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

Ruth · #5 03-21-2006, 11:19 AM

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 · #6 03-21-2006, 07:11 PM

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.