Making Aquarium Water Changes Easier - EP 2: Saltwater Aquarium Maintenance

www.bulkreefsupply.com Water changes in your saltwater aquarium play a major role in the health of your reef tank. In today's episode of BRStv, we discuss ways to make changing the water easier so you do it more often. Let's face it, water changes are not the highlight of owning a reef tank. It can be time consuming, waiting for your RO system to produce the water, waiting for the water to heat up and getting the correct level of salinity to be able to use the water. Then you have to remove the water from your tank and replace it with the new salt water all while keeping the salinity in your tank stable. So here a few ways to hopefully make it easier: 1. Get two containers that are the same size and a three way valve. Be sure you have enough space for both these containers. This will ensure you always have a waiting batch of freshwater from your RO System. When the saltwater container is empty, simply turn the valve to fill up with the heated water, add your salt and you are ready to go. Go one step further and put a timer on the container of freshwater. If you always do a water change on Sunday, you can set the timer to heat and aerate the water on Saturday night and turn off on Sunday - saving you energy because you are not heating the water all the time. It is a good idea to always keep the saltwater container heated with some flow to avoid precipitation issues. 2. Get two same-size containers matching the amount of water change you would like to do. For example, if you want to "change" 25 gallons for your 100 gallon tank each time, mark a line on the container at 25 gallons coupled with the container which also holds 25 gallons. This way you can completely empty the freshwater container, thus eliminating the process of adding small amounts of salt over and over again to get to the proper salinity. Same freshwater volume, same salt added, same salinity - it won't be perfect but it will get you pretty close. 3. Removing the saltwater from your old tank can be a pain and no one likes hauling buckets around - they're heavy and they make complete mess. Try the water change hoses that start the siphon by turning on the faucet (no sucking up tank water with your mouth - yuck) and the old water just goes down the drain. 4. Pump the water directly to your tank from the storage container. If your tank and storage container are close enough this is a great option. Get a large submersible pump like a Sicce that can handle the head pressure and just pump the water to the tank. Finally, people often ask about the large water containers you see in many of our BRStv videos. We don't sell them at bulkreefsupply.com as they would be too expensive to ship. The brand we use are Norwesco but you can look up a farm supply or plumbing supply store in your area. Are you going to try any of these tricks to make your water changes easier? Are you already doing them or have other great ideas for decreasing the pain of water changes? Let us know in the comments below.

Making Aquarium Water Changes Easier - EP 2: Saltwater Aquarium Maintenance sentiment_very_dissatisfied 36

Pets & Animals 10 years ago 217,194 views

www.bulkreefsupply.com Water changes in your saltwater aquarium play a major role in the health of your reef tank. In today's episode of BRStv, we discuss ways to make changing the water easier so you do it more often. Let's face it, water changes are not the highlight of owning a reef tank. It can be time consuming, waiting for your RO system to produce the water, waiting for the water to heat up and getting the correct level of salinity to be able to use the water. Then you have to remove the water from your tank and replace it with the new salt water all while keeping the salinity in your tank stable. So here a few ways to hopefully make it easier: 1. Get two containers that are the same size and a three way valve. Be sure you have enough space for both these containers. This will ensure you always have a waiting batch of freshwater from your RO System. When the saltwater container is empty, simply turn the valve to fill up with the heated water, add your salt and you are ready to go. Go one step further and put a timer on the container of freshwater. If you always do a water change on Sunday, you can set the timer to heat and aerate the water on Saturday night and turn off on Sunday - saving you energy because you are not heating the water all the time. It is a good idea to always keep the saltwater container heated with some flow to avoid precipitation issues. 2. Get two same-size containers matching the amount of water change you would like to do. For example, if you want to "change" 25 gallons for your 100 gallon tank each time, mark a line on the container at 25 gallons coupled with the container which also holds 25 gallons. This way you can completely empty the freshwater container, thus eliminating the process of adding small amounts of salt over and over again to get to the proper salinity. Same freshwater volume, same salt added, same salinity - it won't be perfect but it will get you pretty close. 3. Removing the saltwater from your old tank can be a pain and no one likes hauling buckets around - they're heavy and they make complete mess. Try the water change hoses that start the siphon by turning on the faucet (no sucking up tank water with your mouth - yuck) and the old water just goes down the drain. 4. Pump the water directly to your tank from the storage container. If your tank and storage container are close enough this is a great option. Get a large submersible pump like a Sicce that can handle the head pressure and just pump the water to the tank. Finally, people often ask about the large water containers you see in many of our BRStv videos. We don't sell them at bulkreefsupply.com as they would be too expensive to ship. The brand we use are Norwesco but you can look up a farm supply or plumbing supply store in your area. Are you going to try any of these tricks to make your water changes easier? Are you already doing them or have other great ideas for decreasing the pain of water changes? Let us know in the comments below.

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Most popular comments
for Making Aquarium Water Changes Easier - EP 2: Saltwater Aquarium Maintenance

David Miller
David Miller - 7 years ago
I do water changes weekly. I was wondering if its ok to let the rodi water sit in my container for 6 days without circulation or heat. My container is similar to the brute. Dark with no light coming into the water.
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 7 years ago
Sure! Many reefers store RODI water in containers for long periods at a time. Here at BRS we always have about 90gal ready to go!
D Leal
D Leal - 7 years ago
Great great video!!!
GloryHasNoHonor
GloryHasNoHonor - 7 years ago
Is it possible to do too many water changes? I have a 13.5 gal fowlr tank but i like my water to look as if it doesn't exist in the tank. I'm doing weekly changes of about 3 gal and the water is basically invisible but i was just curious to know if It's possible to do too many water changes of 20% or any other increments. Thanks for the informative videos.
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 7 years ago
For some corals in a tank, maybe from a nutrient standpoint and constant fluctuations of water parameters (Ca/Alk/Mag/pH), it may not be good to do large frequent changes. However, for a FOWLR tank, I wouldn't be too concerned. Personally, I do a 70% water change every two weeks on my SPS dominant 40gal tank here in the office and everything is just fine. Granted, I match temp/alk/ca/mg before doing the change. :-)
BranFlakesR1337
BranFlakesR1337 - 7 years ago
the billy mays of fishing
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 7 years ago
Cam J
Cam J - 7 years ago
Where could I get one of those white cylindrical containers? Thanks
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 7 years ago
Hey there! We order these from a company called "Norwesco". Just a quick internet search and you'll find them! ;-)
Mathew Jones
Mathew Jones - 7 years ago
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 7 years ago
sagar Sha
sagar Sha - 7 years ago
do u supply fishes to India???
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 7 years ago
Hey there! At this time we are only able to ship to U.S. and Canada. Thanks for watching and being a fan of BRS! :-)
Jim
Jim - 7 years ago
I use my Apex to automate my RO prodiction for a 45g Brute, (auto flushes membrane via 2 solenoids) Water is then pumped to a 45 gallon salt mixing contaioner. My problem now is 45g isnt enouigh I need to add a second 45g Brute., I only have room for the height of a 45g brute. How can I do this (one containter feeds my ATO on another floor, and want to have a full 45g for my new SW. ?!?

Thanks
Jim
Jim - 7 years ago
Ok thats what I will do :)
Thanks :)
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 7 years ago
I would say put them as close to the bottoms as you can, because it is gravity that will keep them evenly filled and they will drain in unison as if it were one container. :-)
Jim
Jim - 7 years ago
ya I was thinking about going that route I have UniSeals here just didbnt know at what height to put them at maybe just above the float switch in the 1st container
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 7 years ago
Wow, that sounds like a pretty cool setup! It seems like such an individualized issue with space in your water room that I'm not sure I could offer much advice without physically being there to measure and find specific container sizes to meet your needs. I can say that, if you could utilize something like a Uniseal (linked below) you could try putting two of the same sized containers side-by-side which would balance the water between them. That way you get double the volume but only need on single drain point.


http://www.bulkreefsupply.com/uniseal-1-9d624e9fd3bd011eb7a8f1d40f457d93.html
Tom Supernault Jr
Tom Supernault Jr - 7 years ago
I use a 30 gallon garbage can on wheels and a pump with hose , pump water from tank right in to can , then wheel it to sink then pump water into drain, use another same set up for my saltwater and pump water right back into tank , old way use to take me and hour now takes me bout 20 minutes
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 7 years ago
That works perfectly !! :-)

10. comment for Making Aquarium Water Changes Easier - EP 2: Saltwater Aquarium Maintenance

Aayush Borad
Aayush Borad - 7 years ago
how can i store a fresh mix for a long while, like for a couple of days
Sackson
Sackson - 7 years ago
Aayush Borad don't store for too long, I did and I had some. brown goop growing in my mixing tub. Don't circulate it too much either.
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 7 years ago
+Aayush Borad Here's a video we did on this exact topic that may help answer that and more for you!
JcSH2o
JcSH2o - 7 years ago
I'm new to salt, but I am learning and preparing to start a low tech nano. That being said, I have kept freshwater of every type imaginable for 25+ years.
I keeping reading/hearing that in reef tanks, doing large water changes are a bad thing. What exactly makes this bad? Assuming the new water is correctly mixed and the 'holy trinity' of alk calc and mag test true before hand, why is it bad? I'm only curious, as in freshwater doing water changes are vital to the overall health of the system. What is inside of the 'aged' water column that we are trying to limit removal of? Or is it something to do with what's inside of the 'new' water? Thanks for the help!
JcSH2o
JcSH2o - 7 years ago
BulkReefSupplyCom Thanks for the response! And I agree, that would be a great BRS Investigates!!
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 7 years ago
+JcSH2o Hey there! It's definitely a topic of some debate, but personally I do large weekly water changes on my office tank as it is really the only means of nutrient export I use. I think a possible concern for some is that with large water changes there is the potential for larger fluctuations in Alk/Ca, salinity, pH, temp...etc.

It's definitely a great topic to explore for BRStv Investigates!
michael de la cruz
michael de la cruz - 7 years ago
Why use 2 tanks when storing RODI instead of just using one for mixing saltwater am i ever going to need just fresh RODI water with out salt?

I'm new to the hobby just ordered a Red sea reefer 350 im just doin as much research as i can before i start my new aquarium.
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 7 years ago
Hey there! Many reefers use an additional RODI storage for top off water. Your tank will evaporate water each day. Some tanks evaporate as much as 1-3gallons while others are less. If you add that up throughout a week, you could potentially need up to 20-30 gallons of RODI water on top of what you use for waterchanges. :-)
SC Prepper
SC Prepper - 7 years ago
how would you suggest go about maintaining a large tank? like 200+ gallons? would you even recommend doing water changes at all? right now, i only have nanos, but im looking into a 350 gallon with a 150 gallon sump.
Vince Lok
Vince Lok - 7 years ago
Yes, large tanks still build up nitrate and phosphate.
Arunizz
Arunizz - 7 years ago
Hey brs team, i wanna ask, do I have to buy an ro system, or can i just use product to remove chlorine and any other horrible things.
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 7 years ago
Hey there Arunizz, sorry I missed this! You can setup a tank with tap water, but i wouldn;t recommend it as there are too many unknowns.
Arunizz
Arunizz - 7 years ago
Evan Eversole yeah , I realised thanks anyway . I've set up my own tank with r/o water , currently cycling
Evan Eversole
Evan Eversole - 7 years ago
Arunizz I know I am not the brs team but RO/DI gets rid of things like copper lead and other nasty stuff plus phosphates and nitrates are present in most tap water.
Evan Eversole
Evan Eversole - 7 years ago
Arunizz I know I am not the brs team but RO/DI gets rid of things like copper lead and other nasty stuff plus phosphates and nitrates are present in most tap water.
Claude Zimbelmann
Claude Zimbelmann - 7 years ago
I'm always referring to your videos. I have learned a lot from them.
Johann Garcia
Johann Garcia - 7 years ago
hi ryan , if you use " aquaforest reef or probiotic reef salt ...in just 10 minutes , its ready for use...clear cristal AWSOMEEEEE
William Cowley
William Cowley - 8 years ago
Hey Ryan have you any idea what pump I would need to pump water to the second story of a house
Vince Lok
Vince Lok - 8 years ago
One story is maybe around 10 feet, but add to that the height of your tank, and assuming your pump will be at the bottom of a bucket on the ground floor, say 20 feet to be safe. Go to an online store and look at the pumps, read the specs on the pump. typically they will have GPH (gallons per hour) and SHUTOFF specs. It will tell you the GPH at a specific height for example 400 GPH@ 0', 300 GPH@ 6', 200 GPH@10'. then it might say SHUTOFF @ 12' meaning that at 12 feet, the pump gives you nothing. This height, by the way, is the height of the end of a tube relative to the pump. So if you used a tube of some length (say 30') it matters mostly what the overall HEIGHT of the end of the tube is. So you need a pump that doesn't shutoff at 20 feet, or whatever height you need to pump your water. having bends in the tube will reduce the "head". So if it says it will shut off at 12' and you need it to pump up 8' BUT you have kinks and sharp bends in the tube (or pipe) then that will reduce the effective shut off and gph at 8'.
Young Tank
Young Tank - 8 years ago
Your Videos are extremely helpful I have learned A lot from your videos and research
zacharin0
zacharin0 - 8 years ago
Sorry for not having good explaining skills, but for head pressure, if the water in my tubing goes out of the bucket and lets say that touches the ground again in the tubing, do i need to add the head pressure that it needs to get up to my tank to the head pressure it needs to get up and over my bucket? Or is it just the height from the pump to my tank?
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago
You'll have to account for the height of the tubing that goes up and over your bucket, as well as the tubing that goes from the coil on the ground up to your tank.

20. comment for Making Aquarium Water Changes Easier - EP 2: Saltwater Aquarium Maintenance

zacharin0
zacharin0 - 8 years ago
Does length in the tubing affect head pressure on the pump? Or can I just buy a pump for the height i need the water to go without thinking about how far it is.
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago
Ok, in that case horizontal pressure won't play much of a factor. I would just go for the height you need, but over-sizing a bit wouldn't hurt.
zacharin0
zacharin0 - 8 years ago
About 25 feet from my saltwater bin to my aquarium.
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago
Horizontal plumbing length will also have an effect on head pressure, but it doesn't have near as much of an effect as vertical head pressure does. How far are you looking to pump?
Yasser Al-Ali
Yasser Al-Ali - 8 years ago
Hey brs team, i wanna ask. Can i use a different type of salt when i do water change? For example, my tank has instant ocean salt, and when i do a water change i want to use red sea salt. Can i do that or shouls i use the same type of salt?
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago
Yup, just make sure the salinity matches and you should be ok.
Rico Suave
Rico Suave - 8 years ago
Does salt mix expire ?
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago
+Rico Suave It will likely absorb moisture and harden, but it shouldn't go bad.
waytoboredoflife
waytoboredoflife - 8 years ago
If I wanted to make 200 Gallons of salt water, how big of a water storage container would i need? Assuming the salt takes up too much space to use a 200 gallon container?
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago
+waytoboredoflife Technically you would add the salt to water to make 200 gallon of water, so you wouldn't need anything larger than 200 gallons.
Darth GrumpBert
Darth GrumpBert - 8 years ago
Ryan, gotta say that the thumbnail for this vid is hilarious! Thumbs up guy knows what he's doing! :D
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago
+Darth Mymoonkeepoff Ha! Thanks Darth!
phorce01
phorce01 - 8 years ago
By far the best bloke to watch on youtube. Just don't cut ya hair again ;)
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago
+phorce01 lol
Sky Smith
Sky Smith - 8 years ago
that is cool!
RMLLLLL
RMLLLLL - 8 years ago
What about continuous water changes with a dosing pump to a sump, would you guys recommend that? Equal rate in from a fresh salt water container and equal rate out
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago
+yoursisterspanties A lot of pumps have small variances that can mess with the in/out balance over time. Personally I would look into the Neptune DOS. We've had really good luck with setting them up on a water change schedule.
Darryl Nelson
Darryl Nelson - 8 years ago
I like that setup so much that I got two of those tanks and with PVC pipe I plumbed them from my basement to under my kitchen sink using two big Pan World pumps to bring fresh RO/DI and salt water close to my tank. I also plumbed a feedback loop to the saltwater tank to use the same pump to stir the water.
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago
+darryl Nelson Very nice! Sounds like a pretty cool setup!
tnnsman7
tnnsman7 - 8 years ago
Where did you get the storage tanks(0:24)?
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago
+tnnsman7 All good :P
tnnsman7
tnnsman7 - 8 years ago
+tnnsman7 Sorry, asked the question before I got to the end of the video.

30. comment for Making Aquarium Water Changes Easier - EP 2: Saltwater Aquarium Maintenance

Camille Hernandez
Camille Hernandez - 8 years ago
I wanna eat you so bad!! Learning so much on how to maintain a salt water and I don't even have one yet.
Christie Gurganus
Christie Gurganus - 8 years ago
Robert Rainey
Robert Rainey - 8 years ago
Hello, you say, "It is a good idea to always keep the saltwater container heated with some flow to avoid precipitation issues." Regarding the saltwater container above...
1. Please define precipitated in relation to saltwater? Are you referring to water dehydration, salt creep, or loss of minerals out of the water such as calc, mag and others?
2. I have heard suggestions to let the saltwater mix age 24 hours, but then again I would want to know how long is reasonable without
it losing the above mentioned minerals into the air, if that is precipitation? I have let mixed salt sit for a week with a small pump for flow and heater in it, but I was worried it sat too long because I did have to add some fresh R/O to make up for dehydration. So how long should the saltwater sit once it is mixed, before adding it to the tank?
3. If I should let the saltwater sit for a period of time, for whatever reason it should, should I go ahead and have the salt mix aerating in addition to heater and flow? Thank you.
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago
+billforigno I would recommend doing so, if not just for the benefit of oxygenation. When storing the water you can keep it pretty much sealed, but open the container an hour before hand to get some fresh air in there.
billforigno
billforigno - 8 years ago
+BulkReefSupplyCom - In your experience is perpetual mixing/heating needed past the initial 24 hour period in order to keep the solutes in solution within the holding vessel? If so, have you noticed how long the water is able to stagnate before precipitation occurs?

On a side note; what is your opinion on keeping the storage containers sealed? (Considering factors like evaporation, contamination and oxygenation).
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 8 years ago
+Robert Rainey (Bearclawws) In this case we are referring to calcium carbonate precipitation. Calcium and alkalinity have a pretty intense attraction towards one another (normally buffered by magnesium ions), and in certain conditions bond to each other to form calcium carbonate. This calcium carbonate precipitates out of the water, and binds to the various surfaces in the water mixing container, or causes the water to appear cloudy. Mixing the water not only can help prevent this, but it also helps to keep the water oxygenated. Usually a few hours of mixing is fine, but 24 hours would likely be a best practice.
Derrick Downs
Derrick Downs - 9 years ago
I know that you have been asked this a thousand times but what is the size, height and model of the Norwesco containers? Also do you sell them?Thank You
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago
+Derrick Downs Unfortunately we don't sell them because it would cost a small fortune to ship. You can generally find them at local farm/tractor supply stores. The specific model we have in this video is the 45192.
Eric Hubbard
Eric Hubbard - 9 years ago
Old post.. I know... but I thought I might share my approach.. I found it pretty easy. I put a "middle" tank between the main tank and the sump. Overflow first goes to the middle tank.. and then goes out an overflow to the real sump. The pipe going to this middle tank -- can be redirected to the final lower sump. When it comes time for a water change -- I simply redirect the flow to the bottom sump -- and then drain the middle tank. Once drained.. I fill it from a fresh water reservoir that is the same size -- dump some salt into it and let things mix and heat -- once it is ready.. I just change "un"re-direct the flow back to the middle tank.

I keep the fresh water resevoir above the middle tank.. so I can just gravity feed into it with the replacement water. So the only pump involved is the mixing one that I keep in the middle tank. One of the nice features is that I can just turn "on" a step and walk away and know it will stop on its own. So I can, for example, while walking to the car start step 1... then go mow the lawn..etc.. when I notice things are done... gravity drain the fresh water in..(just open valve). then go do other stuff.. then when I notice its done... dump salt in & turn on mixing pump... then maybe on the next day before I go to work confirm salinity and un-bypass.

The total time involved in doing the water change is really .... less than 2 or 3 minutes.. because I don't have to babysit any of the steps.. no pumps to fry on a dry reservoir or anything like that...
billforigno
billforigno - 8 years ago
+Eric Hubbard - I'm glad to see Youtube doesn't hide your comments containing links. 0.0 The Red Sea presenter in the video presentation reminds me of Pete Postlethwaite. Yeah most of these AIO solutions I see being marketed leave me with a really... unexcited feeling. I know they probably mean well but they usually leave me cringing at all the glued-on, hard-plumbed accessories that are attached to the tank (stand, overflow grills, odd canopies, etc.); not because I think they're worthless, but rather because they take away a certain modular freedom that I'd like to imagine being able to take advantage of.

The "optional upgrade" lower sump comes with an "ATO with Reverse Osmosis reservoir" so there's that... I've been paying some thought to how auto water changes would work with auto top off systems; or rather how they wouldn't. The easiest work around I could think of was to put the ATO on a daily timer who's schedule doesn't intersect with WCs... and will perform an "early" top off about 5 mins before water starts getting dumped. I don't think this provision would be needed if old and new water are solely being exchanged in compartments/containers upstream from the return chamber (lowest point), assuming there was no "overflow" from one to the other while filling. Just thinking out loud...
Eric Hubbard
Eric Hubbard - 8 years ago
+billforigno http://www.redseafish.com/aquarium-systems/max-aquarium-systems/max-e-series/ this bugger advertises a "rear" sump and a "lower sump"... with the sales pitch that you can upgrade to the lower sump if you are an advanced reefer.. but seems like running both... the rear sump for water change and the lower sump for.. well... normal sump duties.. course there is still auto-top off and such to consider...
billforigno
billforigno - 8 years ago
+Eric Hubbard - Definitely on the right track. One thing that I believe to be important of note is the container, when used in this way, is adding to the system's total volume. Meaning: let's say you've worked out the need for a 10% change per (time), and your system without the container is 500L. If you then go out and get a 50L bucket to be used as both a system compartment and an exchange vessel, you'll only be exchanging about 9% per change (50/550L). Upping that container/s volume to say... 56L, you'll then have it back over 10% (56/556L). It's a small difference, but I can see it adding up in a big system.

Perhaps modifying the container's outlet-to-drain (for WC) would allow all the gunk at its base to be prioritized by the suction when draining? Your right in that this particular container would be a PITA to clean the inner walls of. This actually brings to mind the issue of organics export in any compartments up stream from the mechanical export methods (skimmer, filter socks, etc.)... if memory serves Saxby may have partially side stepped this by adding a skimmer or two upstream from the exchange containers, as well as including multiple circulation pumps to add flow in and between said containers.

As for how to add new water, I personally believe a separate storage container that can keep enough new mixed water for at least 2 or 3 full water changes is indispensable for the long term convenience of maintaining a reef system, and even freshwater systems that require some form of water conditioning. I would be thanking myself when the time came for an emergency exchange, or just needing to replace a small amount to account for a removed rock/coral. Some people are more skilled with mixing the right proportions of salt and fresh on the fly, so making it as they need it isn't a problem for them.
Eric Hubbard
Eric Hubbard - 8 years ago
+billforigno So if you had 1 middle bucket.. like on a heavy duty drawer that you could easily remove, empty and refill.... maybe with a nice handle.. something like this https://www.google.com/express/productlanding/13508535912753661101_16298116689334952665_1209243?mall=EastBay&gclid=CjwKEAiA_ra1BRDV-byb_aDqpQoSJAA-ofB9Sd3FVA-lROn_2WNG6xYJxnmfCUwBuDE4piTmSBpcnBoCe17w_wcB#/ maybe elongate the input by gluing a taller pipe... and then a shorter pipe for the water to overflow out of. Of course that container collect a lot of crud over time and might not be the easiest to 100% clean.. If someone sold a bucket like that that was just right... and then combined it with a 2 part salt mix that was sized just right for the bucket... so you could quickly fill, mix, heat and place it back into the loop..hmmm
billforigno
billforigno - 8 years ago
+Eric Hubbard - (Repost: because Youtube hides all my comments containing links ':/ )
Yep. Life could be made easier for many an aquarist once more manufacturers start catching on to the desire for auto/semi-automated water changes. I started thinking about the "sump compartment drain" idea after watching this one part of an aquarist's house tour (search von Drachenfels > 1st video > 1:48). I noted the ball valve drains coming from the bottom of the somewhat-elevated sump and it got me thinking.

I like your "double bucket" idea since, like your original drainable middle tank, it provides a handy way of exchanging a predefined amount of water without interrupting the sump return's operation. Emptying the whole sump, though possibly a more "thorough" organic export technique like siphoning display tank detritus, doesn't offer the same luxury. I will say though that the "middle tank" method looks better to me on paper than the double bucket due to its flexibility. You would just be redirecting the display tank water straight to the sump instead of the 2nd bucket, emptying the middle tank to waste, then filling it by pump/float switch from a bigger reservoir that may be too large to comfortably fit above the tank level, but can hold many weeks worth of fresh, prepared water.

Thanks for the input about raising the sump. You may have noticed that I tend to be shying away from plans that require gravity feeds for the water change system. Part of the reason is that I am usually living with others, so putting holes through walls for piping, putting new-water containers on high platforms beside the tank or leaving tubing going from the sump to the nearest drain isn't really an option. :P At the same time, I'm also thinking of ways to make it more hands-off, meaning certain items associated with mandatory weekly/twice weekly maintenance should be able to stay in one place, perform the required tasks, and not get in anyone's way. Hence ideas like using a pump to empty the sump... most likely into a waiting, tall container that can take a week or two of old water before I get around to pumping it to the garden/drain.
Eric Hubbard
Eric Hubbard - 8 years ago
+billforigno I would think --- just raising the sump like 6 inches.. give it a very obvious low point with a drain hole.. put an easy turn valve on it and a coiled garden hose. Next to the sump have a container where you mix your replacement water. Turn off your return pump.. uncoil the garden hose to your drain.. empty the sump.. gravity dump the replacement water into the sump... turn return pump back on. That method is pretty simple -- but you can't accidentally leave the process alone for a day without the return pump on. I would sometimes have water changes that would take me 2 days to do.. because I'd get interrupted, or forget to move onto step X.. but that wasn't an issue.

I've thought that if I could have a tank -- with 2 x 5 gallon buckets under.. both of which would have a standpipe and drain into the sump. Water from the display only goes into one of them at a time, the other "inactive" bucket is your mixing/prep bucket. When the inactive bucket is ready.. redirect tank to that one.. and simply remove the formerly active bucket... dump it.. fill it with water add salt... maybe a small pump/heater on it... both buckets help with mixing.. and maybe even act as the heater for the main tank...

If you were one of these companies that make AIO tanks.. you think they would be all over something like this... the Fluval AIO with the drainable 'back sump' shows they are starting to go that way. There are also some small 1 gallon tanks that have removable portions of the tank that you dump/replace... but nothing I've seen in the ~30g range...
billforigno
billforigno - 8 years ago
+Eric Hubbard - I like the sound of that "Fluval AIO" method. I feel like both yours, Saxby's and that really strike close to the winning concept. I've been toying with the idea of automatic timer-set water changes that result in all or most of the sump chambers being emptied, along with accumulated detritus, by way of pumps on timers/controllers. Beware! It is rather convoluted.

It would start with an "export pump". Its intakes going into the smallest chambers (1st ones to empty) would be plumbed with float valves set to close at certain water levels, while the largest chamber's float switch (last to empty) would cut power to the pump just above the level of its intake. The regular sump return pump would have to be set to shut off a minute beforehand though, so as to keep the water level in the return more or less constant.

1 minute or 2 after the time that's expected to finish, the timer/controller would cut power to that export pump up stream from its float switch relay. An "import pump" for the new water would activate and fill the sump up to a predefined point, probably by way of another float switch in the return chamber. Another couple of minutes later, the sump return pump/skimmer/s etc. come back on and it's back to business as usual.

As you can probably guess my imagined system is just full ways it could go wrong (float switch failure for one), which is a shame since I'm brainstorming ways to automate these essential tasks so that they can be carried out during my absence. I really don't like the idea of resorting to something like a drip system where many more dollars of salt mix/preparation liquids go down the drain than what I think is needed. The real kicker is I seem to find the act of "overthinking" these concepts rather amusing.
Eric Hubbard
Eric Hubbard - 8 years ago
+billforigno Interesting. Yeah for me... since the xtra water holding tank was behind the main tank (in my garage). I was able to have it at a fairly high height.. so there was still vertical room for the sump (also in the garage) to be at the bottom level. A similar thing could be done with something like Fluval does on their AIO.. where the filter chamber on the back of the tank is drainable. Unfortunately I no longer have my tank (it was a 180)... but I could see myself working a similar solution on a smaller scale in the future. thx for the google search topic...
billforigno
billforigno - 8 years ago
+Eric Hubbard - Intriguing; that actually looks very similar to David Saxby's (English guy with giant home reef tank) method, albeit on a smaller scale. He uses a number of large containers that are plumbed into the system which are isolated, drained and refilled with fresh SW during a water change. Google david saxby technical review and the first link takes you to a page containing a pdf that gives a detailed overview of the guy's (large) system.

The only issue that comes to mind is dedicating space under the level of the display for a tank that does nothing but hold water (as opposed to the sump), but in practice it looks like the most trouble-free way to perform an efficient 'pump and dump' water change.
Eric Hubbard
Eric Hubbard - 9 years ago
+BulkReefSupplyCom I keep waiting for one of these OTA manufacturers to build something like this into them. The Fluval starts to get the concept by adding a drain on the back-sump.. but why not make the back sump a water change area and put a sump underneath? I guess you still need a fresh water/top off reservoir -- but if you (carefully) plumbed RO/DI into the middle sump.. (and I guess into the real sump so it can top-off during bypass mode).. then you could obtain similar results..
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago
+Eric Hubbard Very clever system! Innovation sure makes this hobby simpler and more enjoyable, especially relating to water changes. :P
jacraig881
jacraig881 - 9 years ago
Idk why anyone dislikes your videos, not everyone agrees on all points or ways to do things but good basic advice is just that. People have bad experiences and tend to take their failures and frustrations out on those the sought advice from, even if the advice given had nothing to do with their failures! Keep up the great work guys!!!
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago
+jacraig881 Thanks!
Brandi Posey
Brandi Posey - 9 years ago
Thank you for have this show
Donnie Lewis
Donnie Lewis - 9 years ago
OK! so two questions, where in the world can I get this water change hose? I've been looking everywhere! 2. How far in advance can I mix saltwater?
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago
+Donnie Lewis We have a couple hoses on the site. This one here is the one that I would recommend:


http://www.bulkreefsupply.com/aqueon-aquarium-water-changer.html



As far as mixing goes, I generally try to mix it within a week or two of a planned water change, but as long as you circulate the water and keep it heated then it can be stored for quite a while.
Daniel Hung
Daniel Hung - 9 years ago
Where do you get those water barrels?
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago
+Daniel Hung We got ours at Norwesco, but you can find them at your local farm supply or plumbing supply shop.  
5K VENOM
5K VENOM - 9 years ago
buckets are the worst thing EVERY ecspecially with stairs
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago
+Nasty Snipes Agreed.  
5K VENOM
5K VENOM - 9 years ago
yep and when you pour them into the tank the water falls out on the floor thank god i have the python
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago
+Nasty Snipes Ohhhhhh yeah.  Have you ever hit the bottom of a bucket on a step on accident?  Water everywhere!
Brian Browning
Brian Browning - 9 years ago
I leave an old return pump in my sump (40 breader) that I use just for water changes, close the valve to my return then simply pump the water out refill the sump with that pristine new water and carry on.
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago
+Brian Browning Awesome! 
SantaMonicaHelp Assistant
SantaMonicaHelp Assistant - 9 years ago
Really cool video man. I like the scientific approach you take to doing things. 
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago
+SantaMonicaHelp Assistant Thanks!
Buddy Sheroka
Buddy Sheroka - 9 years ago
Great video happy reefing
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago
+Buddy Sheroka Thanks!
kazuma koi
kazuma koi - 9 years ago
i have a 30G tank with fish in it and an empty 10Gbucket, i wanna filled my 10Gbucket with tap water for water changes, is it OK if i just let the water sit for about 24HR with a powerhead inserted in the bucket then add the right amount of salt to the bucket, then Booyah? let the magic happen?
kazuma koi
kazuma koi - 9 years ago
+BulkReefSupplyCom
im sorry did you mean with cholrine as in (decholrinator)? then let the magic happen? :D
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 9 years ago
+kazuma koi If you have chloramines which is about a 30% chance that probably won't work. With chlorine it would be the minimum you can do and least expensive as well :)
Thomas mcleod
Thomas mcleod - 9 years ago
Very informative video BRS. Two questions; do i incorporate the total of both my sump and aquarium volumes of saltwater then take 40% of saltwater for a rapid nitrate reduction or just the 55 gal tank? Second, if you remember, which one of the faucet adapter from BRS is that on this video?
420skidrow
420skidrow - 9 years ago
just go buy the instant ocean water from the store. it will be much easier for small tanks. 16.00 for 4.4 gallons. the lazy way
Furfeatherandclaw
Furfeatherandclaw - 10 years ago
Home Brewing shops are also a great way to find water containers to fit certain places and your situation. They typically have measurement markers all over them already and good taps and seals etc thrown in. I think the power saving tips were great here. Have you considered hardwiring in a mixing container/chamber to suitable systems with a bypass? With a fixed size chamber/container you can do all the water changes in one place (in cabinet for small setups) and add water volume to your system at the same time. You also rarely need to lower the tanks water level, so those corals perched up high don't get too stressed. :) just sharing the passion x
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 10 years ago
+Furfeatherandclaw Thanks for pointing that out!
Gureen Turee
Gureen Turee - 10 years ago
One tank for the reefer, one tank for the fish? :P
Kyle Wo
Kyle Wo - 10 years ago
what ro system do u use
Chase Miller
Chase Miller - 10 years ago
Hello what tank do you have in this video?
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 10 years ago
+Chase Miller reef savvy : )
Chris Radici
Chris Radici - 10 years ago
I am in the process of building a similar set-up.  I need to find a pump that will send water 75 ft+ horizontally to my main tank in the house.  Do you have experience in pumps to tell me what brand/model is powerful enough to move water fast enough for water change that is 75+ feet away?
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 10 years ago
+Chris Radici That's going to be a big pump!  Fortunately 75ft horizontally doesn't require nearly as much power as vertically.  In this situation what your going to want to do is calculate the head pressure.  If you do a search for head pressure calculator you will likely find a lot of options.  You will input factors the diameter of pipe your going to use, number of elbows, 45's, etc and it will calculate the total head pressure.  Each pump will have a max head pressure rating, you will just need a pump with a higher max rating then your setup is.  Off the top of my head the Panworld 250PS has a really high head pressure rating of 45ft, but how much you need is going to vary drastically depending on how you setup your plumbing so you will want to figure that out first. 

50. comment for Making Aquarium Water Changes Easier - EP 2: Saltwater Aquarium Maintenance

Michael Milne
Michael Milne - 10 years ago
There are many different types of plastic tanks you can buy. If you want to make sure nothing is going to leech out of the plastic make sure to get a potable water tank. There are tanks that all look the same but have different purposes, and I assume the differences are in the plastic quality and strength. Boat and RV parts places also carry tanks.
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 10 years ago
Good advice, you can also look at your local plumbing supply warehouse.  They often carry the big stock tanks like those at a farm supply/boat/rv place.
Adam Windsor
Adam Windsor - 10 years ago
Hi i have a 3ft by 2ft by 2ft saltwater tank fish only great video, do you know where i can get a water change hose from like that in the uk ?  i had a scan on ebay but cant see anything like it on the uk site, i use NSW and just heat it up. 
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 10 years ago
+Adam Windsor The hose we use is just an Aqueon water changer.  I don't know where to get one there specifically but Aqueon is a part of a pretty giant pet company so I would hazard a bet that its available across the pond.  I would start by looking in some of the chain stores and possibly some of the smaller ones (though it might be found under a different name). 
Jiren The savage
Jiren The savage - 10 years ago
Holy shit cant u just change the water like a normal brackish or regular water fish tank? I was interested in doing a saltwater but damn...
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 10 years ago
+Marcel Rodriguez It can be as simple as mixing a bit of saltwater in a 5g bucket, but you do have to do it before your water change.  Can't just put freshwater into the tank and add salt later :-) Having the system set up makes life a heck of a lot easier though, and if its easier its just that much more likely it will actually get done too!
Gerardo Peña Pérez
Gerardo Peña Pérez - 10 years ago
why are u talking like that? thats not your normal pitch of voice.
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 10 years ago
+Gerardo Peña Pérez Haha I get really excited about water changes :)
Ash
Ash - 10 years ago
HI Ryan,
i got a question to ask. I have bought one of the 55 gallon drum from a local food store that i have been using for a about 6 months now to collect the RODI water for my weekly water changes. when i bought this drum i had cleaned it up thoroughly and let it dry. after about 6 months of usage i noticed the Phosphate level in my tank was showing high.. i checked my rodi unit and the tds meter was showing 0 so the water was good. i checked the phosphate on the water coming directly out of my rodi and the test showed between 0.4 to 0.2ppm however i had some rodi water in the 55G drum and whn i check its ph it showed 0.64ppm so i know that was the source of the phosphate being high in my tank. My question is if you collect rodi water and keep it untouched for some days or untill next water change will that slowly increase your phosphate since the water in the drum will have no movement...i have always liked the idea of setting up a water change station for my 150G setup to make life easier but i am worried to collect water and leave it there would effect the water quality? 
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 10 years ago
+Mr.Ashfaque Khan
So true!
Ash
Ash - 10 years ago
+BulkReefSupplyCom Thanks for your fast response. Yes i have removed that container and seems like it has fixed the issue. Just gotta be careful when you start this diy project the last thing u want is your container leaching out some residues..LOL>.
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 10 years ago
Just letting water sit on its own wouldn't increase the phosphates (stirred or otherwise).  If it continues to go up when stored in the container it must be something that is dissolving into the water, either the container itself or some residue of something that used to be inside of it.  I think the solution is simply to just get a new container and it should fix your issue :-)
Vincent Gonzalez
Vincent Gonzalez - 10 years ago
For a freshwater tank would bacteria show up in the holding container after sitting for a week with an added heater?
Vincent Gonzalez
Vincent Gonzalez - 10 years ago
Thanks for the info
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 10 years ago
+Vincent Gonzalez welcome, glad to help :)
OhmannOcean
OhmannOcean - 10 years ago
Did you buy yours from Indelco Plastics in Minneapolis? I live pretty much in the same area as you and I'm looking to finally make my life easier with some Norwesco tanks.
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 10 years ago
+BioOmen Yup, we did! It really does make life easier having a water change station set-up.
D Boley
D Boley - 10 years ago
Wow....  did not know heat issues caused precipitation! 
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 10 years ago
+Brett Boley learn something new every day, as they say ;)
snake3billion
snake3billion - 10 years ago
Can you use distilled water to lower the salinity in the tank
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 10 years ago
+snake3billion yes you can
Keystone Reefscapes LLC
Keystone Reefscapes LLC - 10 years ago
Great tips!  I'd like to know if you carry the hoses that create the siphon at the sink.  For setups where it works, looks like a great tool.  I also like and use of the three-way valve to maximize the volume of water kept.  I find you can never have enough on hand.  If I can offer a suggestion on salt - I use ESV's B-Ionic Seawater System and find it works great.  The guide inside gives you the measurements needed to mix precisely and it dissolves fast.
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 10 years ago
+Keystone Reefscapes LLC Is this what you're looking for? http://www.bulkreefsupply.com/aqueon-aquarium-water-changer.html (that's what we are using in the video)
Keith Tuttle
Keith Tuttle - 10 years ago
What's a good chemical to use to prevent allergy inside your tank from building up so fast?
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 10 years ago
+Keith Tuttle Did you mean algae? If so, there aren't really any reef safe chemicals you can add to kill algae.  You can absolutely use GFO, though, which is entirely reef safe and removes phosphates which are one of the major food sources for algae.  By keeping phosphates low you will help to prevent algae growth, not to mention the other benefits of low phosphates like enhanced growth in hard corals.
finkirk
finkirk - 10 years ago
What is the size and name of the tank at 0:45?
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 10 years ago
+finkirk Sorry, not at this time.
finkirk
finkirk - 10 years ago
oh cool thanks, you don't ship too Britain do you?
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 10 years ago
+finkirk It's the 16 gallon Innovative Marine Nuvo Nano http://www.bulkreefsupply.com/nano-16-nuvo-aquarium-innovative-marine-1.html
laserguy
laserguy - 10 years ago
What an ASS!  Change the episode numbers from 3 to 2 without even making a comment acknowledging your error.
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 10 years ago
+laserguy Sorry, definitely wasn't trying to pull one over on you! We received a comment on Facebook (was it you?) on the 26th, and made the appropriate corrections shortly after. I hadn't had a chance to let you know until right now. 
laserguy
laserguy - 10 years ago
Where is Episode 2?  You did Epi 1 two months ago and now this.  I even did a search both here and on your site and it's nowhere to be found.
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 10 years ago
+laserguy Thanks for mentioning this, we recently fixed it so hopefully it's a bit more clear. Appreciate your close eye :)
nemisis4eva
nemisis4eva - 10 years ago
damn i am so glad i follow bulkreefsupply! more companies need to care bout the hobby like you guys do! love you guys your videos and best products on the web ! merry xmas and happy news years and happy reefing
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 10 years ago
+nemisis4eva Glad you follow us too :) We're happy to share our knowledge with our fellow hobbyists, gotta stick together! Happy New Year to you.
Nick Stevenson
Nick Stevenson - 10 years ago
The intensity of the very first line to the BRSTV videos always makes me laugh.
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 10 years ago
+Gabriel Suarez lol, it's just so exciting :)
elsie lucas
elsie lucas - 10 years ago
Wish you would demonstrate how to install the floats and the connection between the water tanks. Also, how long can you store the water before it begins to deteriorate.
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 10 years ago
+elsie lucas This video might be of use to you: How To: Install Float Valves for Aquarium RO/DI Systems

As far as storing the water, it will basically last indefinitely provided it's well sealed and not at risk for any contamination.
Michael Fox
Michael Fox - 10 years ago
Since I rent I have 5 gallon polyurethane jugs that I take to the local store for RO and premix saltwater. Luckily, my tank is only 24 gallons so I can do water changes pretty easily with two 5 gallon buckets (even though I do hate lugging them around!). Sunday morning I throw an MJ1200 and a heater in one of the buckets, pour 5 gallons of premix saltwater from the store in, and let it heat and mix for about 8 hours. Once it's ready I siphon 5 gallons from the tank into a second 5 gallon bucket, bring over the fresh saltwater bucket, stick some tubing on the MJ1200 and pump it back into the tank.

It's about the best system I could come up with since I don't have room for RO/Saltwater holding tanks! At least it's easy enough that it helps me keep up with the water changes.
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 10 years ago
Nothing wrong with that at all! The best thing you can do is find something that works for you and your tank :) +Michael Fox 
T Surro
T Surro - 10 years ago
I buy my salt-Red sea Pro Salt, from you guys, but I was always seeing some flakes when warming and mixing the salt mix over night, I called bulk reef and you guys suggested watching the red sea videos on line, I did and they recommend not heating the water and only mix for an hour or two with ro-di water, and even if the water is a little colder than 78, it doesnt do any harm, and I can tell you that this is what I do now and it seems that my cal, alk, mg levels were never more perfect , doing 10% once a week or every other week, I have mostly lps so for now, no additional dosing is needed, thx for the videos, Ryan is the Howard Stern of reef videos!!!
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 10 years ago
+T Surro lol @ Howard Stern of reef videos - thanks :) That's the thing about salt mix, they're not all the same. Each of them have their own instructions on the best way to mix.
Joseph Taylor
Joseph Taylor - 10 years ago
I have a 55 gal Saltwater and I use a 35 gal Grey Brute trashcan for my RODI water, I use it for my top off and my saltwater. I keep a wave-maker and a heater in it at all times. I change 6 gallons every week which is about 11%,  if I start to see any condensation I crack the lid on my can and it goes away. I too use a water pump to pump the water from my brute can to the 6 gallon bucket, makes it a lot faster. The best thing is once you do this about 8-10 times you really start to develop a pattern and can make changes to fit your schedule. I may try a longer hose to run it straight from my brute can though to see if that makes it even easier....
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 10 years ago
Great info - thanks for sharing with everyone. Sounds like a solid schedule you have going there +Joseph Taylor
dangappa
dangappa - 10 years ago
Thank you thank you thank you for the name norwesco. My local supply store just looked at me funny and directed me to a rainwater collection barrel. They owe you a debt. You should post links for this stuff on your site.....
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 10 years ago
Not a bad idea, hope this helped some people find these barrels! +dangappa 
jacomee27
jacomee27 - 10 years ago
Everyone should buy reef genius automatic water change system it's a bit on the pricy side but worth every dollar on the long run
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 10 years ago
Interesting, we haven't tried it out yet (but hope to soon) +jacomee27 
James Brooks
James Brooks - 10 years ago
I placed a T in my return line from my pump and ran it down to a drain in my basement so I don't have to even touch my water when I want to drain it to do my water change!!
Brenda Renee Batey
Brenda Renee Batey - 10 years ago
Hey
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 10 years ago
awesome! nice little reef hack,thanks for sharing :) +James Brooks 
Robert Bowers
Robert Bowers - 10 years ago
I have windows close to my large tanks. So when i drain the water it goes right out the window. It didn't use to, i kept forgetting to mark 30 Gallons on the tanks. I had to use 5 gallon buckets before.
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 10 years ago
Ah, sounds like a handy set-up +Robert Bowers 
Wooden Tool Man
Wooden Tool Man - 10 years ago
Good tips!
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 10 years ago
Thanks +Wooden Tool Man - let us know if you have any to add :)
Pauls Planted Aquariums
Pauls Planted Aquariums - 10 years ago
Kudos! And Happy Holidays to you and the company!
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 10 years ago
Thanks +Pauls Planted Aquriums - Happy New Year!
Cory Cunningham
Cory Cunningham - 10 years ago
moving out in January! can't wait to start a tank!
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 10 years ago
+clikzip +Cory Cunningham The forums can definitely be helpful. Also, some good advice is to find someone whose tank you admire and follow their advice - there are so many ways to tackle this hobby it can be confusing with so many options :) 
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 10 years ago
+Cory Cunningham Awesome!! Would love to see some build pics, you can post them on our Facebook page :)
clikzip
clikzip - 10 years ago
Very rewarding hobby. When I first started i spent ALOT of time reading forums on other peoples experiences. Chances are you can find someone with a very close setup as your own and can learn from their mistakes. Read read read, much easier to prevent a problem than fix it once it happens. Good luck!
GENISIS1TWENTYONE
GENISIS1TWENTYONE - 10 years ago
I make my fresh saltwater in a rubbermaid brute and match it to my aquarium. I have it on rollers and transport it to my aquarium where I drain out 25% using a Aqueon water changer. I have a pump with flexible tubing inside the container that I use to refill the aquarium with fresh saltwater. Works great for me and best part not lugging around a bunch of containers lol 
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 10 years ago
+GENISIS1TWENTYONE Smart idea!! Love anything to make water changes easier on us.
triplesped
triplesped - 10 years ago
How long does saltwater keep ? I keep it in a sealed and heated with flow container
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 10 years ago
+triplesped So long as it's sealed well and there's no risk of contamination, indefinitely. 
Jean-Francois Prince
Jean-Francois Prince - 10 years ago
In the background of this video, I noticed you had a microscope. What do you use it for if I may ask?
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 10 years ago
+Jean-Francois Prince It's a USB microscope so you can view the images on your PC.  We have used it to look at corals and tiny critters like copepods. More of a toy than anything :)
shoopwhoopX
shoopwhoopX - 10 years ago
any know know why my cory cats love to get stuck to the siphon when im draining water?
tpvang
tpvang - 10 years ago
Yep!
cn reefbio
cn reefbio - 10 years ago
Do you guys sell the faucet adapter that starts the siphon shown in the video?
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 10 years ago
Yup, it comes in this kit - http://www.bulkreefsupply.com/aqueon-aquarium-water-changer.html +cn reefbio 
Jase Anthony
Jase Anthony - 10 years ago
Great vid, everything you guys covered in this video is what I started doing about a year ago. I don't mind doing water changes now.
Earl Harman
Earl Harman - 10 years ago
Great tips Ryan. I fill a 5 gallon bucket up with RODI water to the 3 gallon level, I have that marked on a wooden stick. I add 1 1/2 + 2 tablespoons of salt and my salinity is 1.026 each time. I the aerate for 24 hours. I use a mag 7 pump with some pvc pipe to pump it into the tank, controlling the flow with an inline ball valve. I just fill up the feed bucket with each container until I am done. No more lifting to the top of the tank for me. Us old guys always have to figure out an easier way to do it.
Earl Harman
Earl Harman - 10 years ago
+BulkReefSupplyCom
Of course that's with water I filter through my BRS 5 stage filter. I am almost in need of some di resin. I will have to order some after Christmas.
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 10 years ago
sounds like a solid system! +Earl Harman 
Jesper Egeryd
Jesper Egeryd - 10 years ago
Or download aqua calculator and get the right amount of salt directly!!
Benjamin Lombardozzi
Benjamin Lombardozzi - 10 years ago
I love the added humor - great! 

Do you have any information on automatic water changers?  it seems like I saw something once that was a couple of reservoirs and one would take out a gallon and one would add a gallon or something.  there has to be a good way to diy one with float valve controlled pumps or something.
Mike M.
Mike M. - 10 years ago
+elsie lucas
Nah, I just have a tendency to make my life more complex. :)

There is another approach that can be used that is more simple, and cheaper, provided you have a programmable controller like an Apex, and a float switch for sensing the water level in the sump. The switch is placed at the normal operating level of the sump. The controller is programmed to turn on a small pump for a set time each day, and this pump sends water from the sump down the drain (typically 1% of the system volume). After it's done running, a second pump in the makeup salt water reservoir turns on, and refills the sump until the float switch tells it to turn off.

There are important considerations with this setup, such as having some sort of redundancy to eliminate disasters from controller or switch malfunction, and the ability to disable auto topoff during the water change cycle. Also, the  water change process needs to automatically disable itself if the reservoir runs dry. These things can be easily accomplished with a versatile and reliable controller.
elsie lucas
elsie lucas - 10 years ago
+Mike M. Damn, that sounds complicated but efficient. Are you an engineer ? 
Mike M.
Mike M. - 10 years ago
I use a 2-head peristaltic pump/driver that I bought on ebay, An apex controller runs it for 10 minutes at the same time every day. It was tricky to "tune" it to always pump out as much as it pumped in. There were two problems: One was that the back pressure from the reservoir changes every day due to the falling water level inside it, so the amount added to the sump changed daily, whereas the amount being pumped out of the sump was consistent due to the continuous water level in it. So there was a constant imbalance. The solution was to have the pump take its replacement water from a container placed on the floor. This container has a high-volume float valve in it that leads to the reservoir. When the pump starts pumping water, the float valve falls and water flows into the container from the reservoir. So, the pump is always drawing water from the same height. Once this problem was solved, the other issue was to get the two heads on the pump to have identical flow rates. The water "out" side pumped more water than the water "in" side. This was solved by putting a plastic ball valve on the submerged end of the tube that drew water out of the sump, and repeatedly testing both halves of the pump by using it to simultaneously fill two 5 gallon buckets for a set amount of time and weighing them afterward. The ball valve was adjusted until the weights were identical, and the system was tuned.
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 10 years ago
+Benjamin Lombardozzi should be a topic of a future video :)
Jimmy Rogers
Jimmy Rogers - 10 years ago
Check out reef2reef. There is a thread on there on using a pump designed to do matching amounts of water. You can set it to run a certain amount of time per day to do water changes all the time.
Jimmy Rogers
Jimmy Rogers - 10 years ago
I live in an apartment. So none of this helps me. lol.
Jimmy Rogers
Jimmy Rogers - 10 years ago
Haven't been in Nashville long enough. Plan to next year though. Tired of not having a garage either. Lol
BulkReefSupplyCom
BulkReefSupplyCom - 10 years ago
+Jimmy Rogers maybe you can use your aquarium as an excuse to buy a new house lol
Jimmy Rogers
Jimmy Rogers - 10 years ago
+ps2cho I have a 120 gallon tank and have to make my water upstairs and carry 5 gallon buckets of water downstairs to mix in a 20 gallon container next to the tank. I have a 20 gallon tank for auto topoff as well because of how much I hate carrying those buckets. I only do tiny water changes though. I don't have much need for 20 gallon plus waterchanges.
ps2cho
ps2cho - 10 years ago
You can still buy an RODI with a faucet adapter...and assuming you have a smaller tank, I'm sure storing 20g of water isn't too hard.

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