Water changes?

Ok so im new to this saltwater thing, and the water change worrys/ confuses me. With my fresh water tanks i drain and then fill but with satwater....???? do i have to have the water pre mixed or can i drain fill and check the salitity with my hydrometer? Thanks for any help! matt

 

With water changes you should have your salt water already made with the correct temp, saltinity, and ph. then you drain about 20% out and add your premade water right in!
Good luck
-Jordan

 

Water change always sounds scary, but on the contrary, its a very easy task that helps you maintain the tank very easily. +1 on what 4g1v3n said!!!!

 

I agree, you want to change about 20% of your water and I change my water about very 2-3 weeks. You want to make sure your salinity is correct and ph before you make the change. Also if possible add the new water to you sump.

 

so do i have to pre mix everything like a day before i change water or can i do it a little before i do the water change?

 

i make up my new water at least a day ahead of time. this gives the water time to come up to temperature and for the salt to dissolve completely. it also gives you times to check on the salinity and pH and make any needed adjustments. be sure to keep the water moving before the change. i use an old rio powerhead or a airstone. good luck!

 

Hello and welcome.

Always set up a maintenance schedule of water changes at least every 2 weeks. Make sure that everything you use for your tank is only used for your tank and nothing else. By a brand new bucket for mixing your water. Use a powerhead or airstone to circulate your water. Mix your salt to the correct salinity(best between 1.024-1.026) I keep mine at 1.025. Have a heater in there as well so it is the same temp as the tank water. Syphon the water out, and replace with your new water. Mix the water the night before.

It's a good idea to blow your rocks off from time to time with a brand new turkey baster. This will remove detritus from the rock, but syphon the detritus when doing the water change so it doesn't settle in the substrate.

Hope this helps, ask any questions, we're here to help.