how could Saltwater vary?

between differant LFSs selling it? water quality wise.

because there is a very trusted LFS that is a drive down freeway from me, and there is a not so trusted one with semi-poor reviews on google maps right around the corner from the place i just moved into, have yet to even go inside.

should i just make the extra drive to the trusted store? or should all saltwater be the same? other then their stated salinity.

not sure how it all works, i only have a 37 gallon making a trip to the lfs with a 5 gallon jug for a water change much easier than mixing my own and getting an ro/di.

 

The way it can vary is either from different salt mixes, which shouldn't be much of a difference, or from one using ro/di water and one using unfiltered tap water which could make a huge difference.

 

i would always take the extra drive for better quality and trustworthy staff.

how much does lfs water cost? just curious

 

I couldn't agree more. If anything else its worth the piece of mind.

 

its 59cents a gallon at the trusted one, and i have no idea for the other.

which equates to a 3 dollar water change for me, obviously wouldnt be worth it if i had a massive tank.

 

an "untrustworty" LFS could very well be a place you wouldn't shop at in general, a place you don't get coral from, but dry goods is fine, visa versa, etc. and still be a place that's fine to get WC water...

you won't really know until you check them out yourself and make your own trust worthiness decisions... just keep in mind the reviews you have read... but more than once I have found I do not agree with google reviews of LFS in my area... for better and worse...

 

Trusted or not I would find out what they use for water, RO/DI is preffered. Also have them check the TDS in front of you before they add the salt so you have no doubts about the quality. Next check what salt mix they use and what specific gravity they mix it to.
I have been in some real hole in the wall shops with excellent water and in trusted stores where there supposed RO/DI TDS was in the hundreds. Never assume anything and nothing beats having your own RO/DI so you alone control your water quality.