Choosing Salt Mix

[cathyg_99]

i know some people say the higher brand of salts are better for SPS but if your just staring out or have a mixed reef Instant ocean should be fine, thats all ive used since the start and ive got fantastic growth for 4 months

[intarsiabox]

I've used 5 different brands of salt and can't say any one performed better than the other. None caused algae blooms or killed any of my corals or fish. My current bucket of salt that I just started using is Seachem Reef because it was being sold a few blocks from my house and it was on sale.

[ponokareefer]

Originally Posted by intarsiabox

I've used 5 different brands of salt and can't say any one performed better than the other. None caused algae blooms or killed any of my corals or fish. My current bucket of salt that I just started using is Seachem Reef because it was being sold a few blocks from my house and it was on sale.

My experience is about the same as this. I used high end for quite a while, switched to Instant Ocean, then tried a couple of other brands. I'll be sticking with Instant Ocean as none of the other brands seemed to perform any better, Instant Ocean is cheap, and I had to use less additives with Instant Ocean than some of the more expensive brands.

[phi delt reefer]

most of the tank of the months on ALL Sites use instant ocean. nothing wrong with it and its hard to beat at $50 for a 200 gallon box.

I personally use the ESV component salt. A little bit of work but the salt comes in 4 base components that you mix. I bought a scale to measure the components out. I can mix and use a batch in ten minutes. Because its broken out into components everything dissolves quick. Not available in Canada though - i drive across the border to pick up a 200 gallon box but on a 50 gallon total volume tank its going to last me a few months

[don.ald]

Originally Posted by phi delt reefer

most of the tank of the months on ALL Sites use instant ocean. nothing wrong with it and its hard to beat at $50 for a 200 gallon box.

all true but hardly likely you will find a 200g box for $50. here on the island.

[Diana]

I agree IO is good, we have also been using Kent lately with good results. A batch of Reefer's Best recently caused major damage to a lot of our tanks

[gobytron]

salt is salt.
the rest is just marketing and minor elemental differences easily adjusted.

I use Seachem Reefsalt.
I dont habve to adjust alk or magnesium and it mixes clear within a few hours with no scum on top or unidentifieable objects found.
The price point is also great.

[George]

Some one in RC measures major elements in many brands of salt. here is the link:
http://reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?t=1714505

I have been using IO for years because it's widely available in our area (no fear of OOS), and it's the cheapest even with additional elements added (IO is low on Ca).

[lastlight]

I'm happy with my Reef Crystals other than the nasty crap that builds up in my mixing tank.