Filling New Tank

[cccharliecc]

So I am going to be filling up my new 220 gallon tank very soon. I have a couple questions...
I have live sand and dry rock...i am only able to make about 80 gallons of water at a time.

Can I put the live sand and dry rock in the tank with the first 80 gallons of water....main question is does it need to be heated to proper temp and does it need circulation while I am making the rest of the water?

I should be able to make the rest of the water in a couple of days time.

 

[Smo]

Since this is a first time fill you could place your dry rock first without the sand. You want it firmly on the tank bottom anyway. Then fill with RODI water as you can make it. Good time to check for potential plumbing leaks. Then mix your salt in the tank. You will need circulation at this point. When you reach your desired salinity add the live sand. The water will cloud up but eventually start to clear. Wait on the heater until you have a stable water level and return pump is running.

 

[cccharliecc]

Hmmm...I was actually gonna mix the salt with the RO/DI water before I pumped it into the tank.
Also was gonna add the sand first, then rock since I didn’t want an enormous dust storm

 

[TreyC2010]

If you place the rock first it will allow the sand to “hold” the rock in place. You will be ok adding it like that. Just check your salt level once it’s all running and adjust it as necessary.

 

[TreyC2010]

You can put a bowl or plate in the tank to help prevent the storm forming. Or pour it on the rocks.

 

[Smo]

Your choice where to add the salt. But place the rocks firmly on the tank bottom so they are more stable. Later on you don’t want a critter tunneling under a rock only to have it settle in the sand and crush him.

 

[cccharliecc]

Does the live sand need the be kept wet with proper salinity and up to temp?

 

[TreyC2010]

If you place the rock, add the sand, premix the water and add it, then you will be fine. Think of the temp that those bags are used to. Just get a heater on once you have completely filled up the tank and then check salinity. Salinity may change once it is heated.