Getting S.G level correct

[NewToMarine]

I am new to the hobby. Over the weekend I added water to my tank for the first time and got my filters and heater, aerator running. After 24 hours of running, my S.G level was at 1.030. So I took out about a gallon and a half of water and added 2 gallons of fresh water. (I have a 30 gallon tank) Now today, 24 hours after the water change, my S.G level is measuring at 1.012. Did I change too much water, or could it be something in my filters that is pulling the salt out? I want to get my level stable so I can add some live rock to my tank.

[Andrew]

[welcome]

Make sure you are keeping your hydrometer clean and make sure there aren't any bubbles attached to the arm when taking the reading.

[sir_dudeguy]

[welcome]

what andrew said, but also, hydrometers arent always the most accurate anyways. To get a good reading, you should use a refractometer.

But at this point, if you're positive it is that low, take out maybe a half gallon and replace it w/a half gallon that is higher in SG

[Deep6]

First thing you need to do is go to ebay and order a Salinity Refractometer. They are much better and the link below is where I got mine for about $35 shipped. Then remove some water and replace it with water that has a higher level of salt than where your tank is at now to increase the level to 1.024-1.026





http://stores.ebay.com/Gain-Express-Holdings-Ltd

[bertoni]

http://www.reefkeeping.com/issues/2004-06/rhf/index.php

That article will help calibrate your hydrometer, or a refractometer, if you buy one. I agree that the change in SG sounds like a measurement problem, though.