RE: Refractometers..wow !!!

[helipilot]

Hi, on 04/14/06 I asked for opinions on using a refractomer vs a swing arm hydrometer. I received many responses, thank you. As I stated in my earlier topic I ordered one that day via the internet. I received it today. WOW.....What a difference. MY two hydrometers both read 1.025. The refractometer read 1.030. I said no way. I called the manufacturer to be sure of the instructions. I borrowed my LFS refractometer and it read 1.030. I am so amazed. Thank you for the wake up. New question , over what period of time should I take to lower the salinity from 1.030 to 1.025. Thank you in advance.

 

[ChrisRD]

Personally, before I made any corrections I would make a calibration solution with table salt and verify the readings.
http://www.reefkeeping.com/issues/2004-06/rhf/index.php

 

[helipilot]

Could you explain making a calibration solution with table salt ? I don't understand how to do this. Thanks.

 

[ChrisRD]

Basically you just mix table salt with purified fresh water (RO/DI or similar) - the article specifies amounts - click the link above.

FWIW, a refractometer is intended to measure salinity so that's the reading I would be checking (rather than SG).

 

[rayman]

going back to your original question i think it was how should you lower the sg in your tank, remove 1/2 gal and replace with fresh ro/di water every day

if your replaceing evaperation water via buckets replace evap lose in the morning and do your change out in the after noon, depending on the size of your tank it may take longer, also this is actualy a very good way to do your normal water changes, a bit every day less shock that way


if you have a smaller tank ie nano reduce the size of your change down to a more realistic level


just my 2.5 cents