Replacing H2O during cycling

[nsu7]

What affect does replacing evaporated water with freshwater in a cycling SW tank, in other words, does it slow down cycling?

Also, what's the best way to add freshwater, should it be done very slowly in a FO tank, or can I just pour it in all at once? If slowly, what is a good way to accomplish it? ie, drip syphon from a bucket?

 

[steve-s]

What affect does replacing evaporated water with freshwater in a cycling SW tank, in other words, does it slow down cycling?

The only way to maintain a consistant salinity is to top off with FW. The addition will not in any way impede the cycle process.

Also, what's the best way to add freshwater, should it be done very slowly in a FO tank, or can I just pour it in all at once? If slowly, what is a good way to accomplish it? ie, drip syphon from a bucket?

Generally speaking it is not a big concern as long as the water is room temp. Best added to a high flow area of the tank (over a powerhead) or in the sump. It will not bother fish in the least, more often than not they will purposefully swim through it. It can be added all at once, dripping is unneccessary. Keep up with the top offs daily and there will be no large changes in the salinity/chemistry of the water.

Adding FW lowers salinity, the only concern is when raising the salinity.

Cheers
Steve