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There are two easy methods to measure salinity in your reef tank. You can use a hydrometer or the more accurate refractometer.

It is vital that the salt content of your reef tank is controlled very closely. Small variations can cause problems that can be easily avoided if you take the proper steps.

The first tool I will talk about is the hydrometer. They are inexpensive and you can purchase one at your LFS.

Hydrometers are simple to use and read. They need to be carefully cleaned after each use or the salt buildup will prevent good accuracy.

Personally, I recommend you purchase a refractometer for your readings. Their prices have really gone down recently. You have a big investment in your reef so please spend a bit more for this important tool.



The graphic above is a picture of a refratometer.

These precision optical instruments are incredibly accurate even at very low salt levels, and are very easy to use.

You simply lift the cover plate and place a few drops of water from your tank onto the glass prism, then close the cover plate. Just look through the eyepiece to view the scale.

The top of the scale is blue and the bottom is white. Your reading is where the two colors meet. Here is a picture of what it looks like. The reading in the picture is 1.026 SG.

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