Mixing IO

[jbittner]

How long do you have to mix Instant Ocean before doing a water change??? I am used to Oceanic which is full disolved in 2 hrs.

[skeeter-doc]

even after fully dissolved, it is best to let it sit for about 24-48 hours to stabilize all parameters

[SDguy]

IO dissolves just as fast, but as skeet pointed out, it is best to let sit, aerate, and come to temp for at least 24hrs, regardless of the salt. I also like to add some turbo calcium, since IO can be low, IMO/E.

[skeeter-doc]

i just read on here that it is low in Magnesium (too).

[jbittner]

I am in a need to change water now moment. I am having a HA die off event and I would Like to get as much out as possible. Do you thing 6 hrs might be enough??

[jbittner]

I add baking soda, calcium and a multiple supplement that containns magnesium to every water change (its also low an alk).

[skeeter-doc]

its your tank, you can change water whenever you feel like it, ...

[jbittner]

interesting advice skeet?! Thanks

[dkh0331]

Some people report mixing and pouring immediately. I am a true believer in at least 24 hours.

At 6 hours, I would try and replace as little as you possibly can. I don't believe it will create any long term ill effects.

HTH

David

[morty]

Look at this link:

http://web.archive.org/web/20001212230600/http://www.animalnetwork.com/fish2/aqfm/1997/sep/bio/default.asp

With the proper mixing device, you can get it dissolve very fast. The author goes on to say that the only "stabilization" you usually need to worry about is pH, and this can be fixed just by some aeration (if it's high). I doubt you have to wait as long as 24h, a couple hours would probably do it. Just give it a test before using it.

[skeeter-doc]

sure you can do your water change, but expect your corals to shrink up, because if I remember correctly, freshly made saltwater is a bit caustic and the corals etc won't like it too much

[gillies]

48 hours.

[dc]

About 5 minutes.