Saltwater mixing

[sigma]

While starting up my tank tonight I mixed about 15 gallons, adding about 1 cup of salt per 5 gallons of water. maybe a little more. I tested the mixture and it was at 1.022. I added this initial 15 gallons to the tank, that already had the live sand on the bottom, and tested it again. this tim it read 1.010 on the hydrometer. I added a bit more salt, let it mix, and still 1.010. I added atleast another cup of salt mix, and it still was on the lowest reading on the hydrometer.

Thinking this might be a hydrometer error I tested another bin that held 20 gallons of saltwater and it came up 1.021. SO I know the hydrometer is working. But after all the mix in the tank right now, why is the reading so low? I need help, it is already in the tank with the live sand. I added another cup of salt mix late tongiht ij hopes that it will mix proberly by tomorrow.

If the worst happens is there a chance of saving the live sand? PLease help!!!

 

[Navarre]

How many gallons are already in the tank?

What temperature is the tank waster compared with the temperature of the bucket? The temperature of the tank will alter tha salinity of the water.

IMO you should have filled the tank with water, then added the salt to the correct level and finally added the live sand.
Ok... which type of hydrometer do you use?
I have given up with Hydrometers as they are very innaccurate. I use a Refractor now, much more expensive but far far more accurate. (it also accomodates for changing water temperatures)

 

[sigma]

There are 20 gallons in the tank right now, The temperature in the tank right now is about 70. The bucket is around 78-80. I am using a Marine Enterprises, Inc. hydrometer.

 

[bgraber]

Actuall Dr Foster and Smith has a refractometer for 39 I believe.. Not That much more than a plastic jobby..

 

[Navarre]

Now its been a couple of days, what is the tank sg now?

 

[sigma]

I drained the tank, leaving about an inch of water to keep the sand wet. I started mixing up another batch of 20 gallons last night and tested it with a new hydrometer I just bought, and everything is looking good. I'll add that 20 gallons shortly and begin mixing another 20 gallons. Thanks for your help.

 

[Navarre]

glad its working out for you now