New water question

ok, so I'm gonna be getting my system soon. For those who have seen my other thread, it's the 29G bio cube.

Now, as far as what's going in...I'm putting the live sand with crushed coral, and cured rocks (I can get em cheap). Should I be putting in new water and letting it cycle through, or is it recommended to take some good water from my buddy's (auditt76) tank. So basically as he is draining off 5G at a time for water changes, is it recommended that I grab that water and throw it into my tank??

I am assuming it's better for the cured rock to use water that's already been cycled. Am I wrong?

Please be patient with me as I embark on this steep learning curve. I've picked up a lot of info in the last week or so, so it's a bit hard to process it all right now.

 

Bad idea to use someones water that they removed as a result of a water change! The reason we do water changes is to remove and dilute waste, excess nutrients and insufficient water as far as trace minerals, vitamins and other salts, necessary for the overall health of your livestock.
In my opinion, I would use freshly made saltwater at an optimum temp. and salinity. This way you are starting out the right way!!! I can see using someones sand or live rock from a mature tank and adding it to your tank. Used water in my opinion is a no-no because you are running the risk of adding waste, dissolved carbon dioxide, other pollutants as well as the introduction of parasites etc.

 

Good advice Coral Reefer! + karma

 

I totally agree with reefer. Its better to start fresh.

 

Sounds good. Now, would that have an affect on my live rock? I'm getting stuff that's been cured for a while already. Would the new water have any negative affects on it? The water will be filtered through one of those reverse osmosis filters, and I will get the salt level as close as possible.

 

I dont see why, but you will still go through a cycle. Also remember that every time you introduce new livestock, esp. fish and inverts, you will go through a small cycle. So dont freak out when you start to see your water chemistry going a little crazy. Luna

 

perfect. thank you.