How to Add Water to a Saltwater Aquarium

Reducing nitrate levels in water is a good way to provide a stable environment for aquatic life in your saltwater aquarium. Dedicated water maintenance is critical to marine life care. Water changes are a bit more challenging in a saltwater tank versus a freshwater tank. However, thanks to modern technology, one-step salt mixes are widely available, making the task easy and inexpensive.

Things You'll Need

  • Commercial salt mix
  • Siphon
  • 5-gallon bucket
  • Aquarium thermometer
  • Saltwater test kit
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Instructions

    • 1

      Disconnect all power from your tank.

    • 2

      Remove the top glass and clean it, along with any other glass that may need attention.

    • 3

      Siphon out at least 10 percent of the aquarium water into a 5-gallon bucket.

    • 4

      Rinse filter media in the bucket. Clean all pumps, hoses and other attachments using siphoned aquarium water.

    • 5

      Wipe excess salt from the top lips of the aquarium.

    • 6

      Mix a new batch of saltwater using a commercial salt mix and water according to package directions. Be sure to use dechlorinated water.

    • 7

      Use a saltwater test kit to test the salinity of the new water mix. Also use a thermometer to test the temperature of the new water to be sure it's the same as the existing tank water.

    • 8

      Replace the cleaned filter, pumps and accessories.

    • 9

      Pour the new water into the aquarium slowly to avoid disturbing the fish and plant life.

    • 10

      Plug in the power, and start up the pumps, lights and heater.