Excessive salinity

[Harry]

I have kept my tanks for the last year or so, without using a hydrometer. Today, I found one that measures at the low levels of brackish water. Turns out that my water has a salinity of 1.024 and this is way in excess of the recommended 1.005 to 1.010. I have also seen recommendations of 1.014 to 1.016. Looks like I need to add some distilled water to dilute down.

I have been using Instant Ocean at the recommended half-strength: 1/4 cup per gallon as opposed to 1/2 cup for full sea water.

Any comments?

[Harry]

I got false readings. Air bubbles on the dial caused it to float up. More careful readings showed the salinity in both tanks to be at 1.014 - spot on.

[KenCotigirl]

Harry. I dislike the float type tester. The bubbles were a problem for me. Like any other hobbiest i went out and spent more than I should and bought a digital tester. It is quick and makes me happy. If I ever get a itch for mini reef tank I have one component. My tanks range from 1.012-1.014.

[YoungMrHoward]

How much is a digital tester?$?$?

[KenCotigirl]

$100. A Milwaukee digital seawater refractometer.

[YoungMrHoward]

Omz. IOC.

[KenCotigirl]

YMH. What does omz and ioc mean?

Ken