does distilled water need to be dechlorinated, or just add salt?

Discussion in 'New To The Hobby' started by Solowkoe, Aug 20, 2006.

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  1. Solowkoe

    Solowkoe Astrea Snail

    Joined:
    Aug 16, 2006
    Messages:
    29
    Location:
    East bay, CA
    does distilled water need to be dechlorinated, or just add salt? also, how long after adding salt do i have to wait till adding LS and LR?
     
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  3. rickzter

    rickzter Torch Coral

    Joined:
    Sep 8, 2005
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    1,197
    Distilled water pretty much has NOTHING in it. That includes chlorines and other cleaning agents. It has nothing, not even minerals. I've read about distilled water being unsafe for reef. If you search on google, a few articles will pop up. Something to do with the minerals in the tank bonding with the distilled water causing a rauckus. Research.

    When you add the salt to the distilled water, be sure to prep it in a tub, then check the salinity with your hydrometer. You can add it as soon as the salt level matches your tanks level to prevent a hike. You might also want to use freshwater for topoff since evaporation will raise your salinity in your tank. Monitor, monitor, monitor.
     
  4. Reef Lover

    Reef Lover Sea Dragon

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    Location:
    Brooklyn
    Some brands of distilled water has copper in it.
     
  5. APC

    APC Gigas Clam

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    May 23, 2005
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    Location:
    Atlanta, GA
    Also, regardless of the type of water you use, you should aerate it. I tend to make mine the day before and then aerate it over night before use.