How to Use Walmart Distilled Water Vs. Walmart Drinking Water for a Saltwater Aquarium

Owners of saltwater aquariums know the importance of keeping pH levels and the minerals in the water in check. Distilled water is preferred as it is not chlorinated. Regular Walmart drinking water contains chlorine, fluoride and other chemicals. None of these chemicals should be in a saltwater aquarium. Distilled water can simply be mixed with the correct amount of salt. Regular drinking water requires the water be treated first in order to remove the chemicals in it.

Things You'll Need

  • Salt
  • Water (distilled or drinking)
  • Hydrometer
  • Bucket(s)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Purchase enough Walmart drinking water to fill the aquarium. Open the water bottles and pour them into an open container like a bucket (not the aquarium.) Let the water sit for one to two days. The chemicals such as fluoride and chlorine should evaporate in that time. Once the time has elapsed, add salt to the water. Use a hydrometer to detect salt levels in the water. The salt levels should be between 1.020 and 1.023.

    • 2

      Purchase enough Walmart distilled water to fill the aquarium. Add salt to the water. Use a hydrometer to detect salt levels in the water. The salt levels should be between 1.020 and 1.023.

    • 3

      Pour the water into the aquarium that does not contain fish. Start the pump(s) and heater. Wait for the aquarium to get to the ideal temperature before adding the fish.