buckets for water changes

[kbaker721]

I have two 5 gal pails I use for water changes in my tanks. I know that I need to have it the same temp, but haven't been doing that. I am looking to get a couple small very inexpensive heaters I can use in the buckets to get it at the same temp. What heaters should I use. I am strictly looking for INEXPENSIVE, something that won't burn the plastic buckets, and something that will work for a while. I know it is needed since tonight when I did a nice big water change the tank temp went from about 82 to about 72.... they don't like that.... Thanks

[ChilDawg]

I got a cheap Tetra heater for about $10...the ones for 2-5 gallons are about $5, though.

[VoodooChild]

Do you mix the salt in that bucket right then and there, or do you have a pre-mixed vat that just isn't heated?

[kreblak]

To get proper readings on your SG the water should be at the same temperature as the tank water (Oriongirl, correct me if I'm wrong there.) I have been mixing up the change water in a 5 gallon bucket and heating it up to 78 degrees with a cruddy little heater I picked up somewhere for $7.99. I let the water sit 24 hours, and then measure the SG. I then add salt or water until it's within .0005 of my tank readings, and then add the water.

BTW, for water movement in the bucket, I finally got one of the free powerheads with a bucket of Instant Ocean! :cool:

[kbaker721]

I fill up the buckets and put in the right amount of salt. I let it sit for 1-2 days, make sure the SG is the same and then do the change. I have had no problems I am aware of in the past 1+ yrs doing this. But I know that keeping the temp the same will be a BIG help.

[VoodooChild]

Yeah, that sounds good. Just checking to make sure you weren't mixing on the spot.