ammonia readings in water

[klcon1]

I am getting low ammonia readings in my saltwater I use for water changes. I have a 44 gal Brute bucket I keep saltwater in. I've been getting a .25 ammonia reading in it for a while now. I use the same kit with my tank and get 0 readings. I have been running a fliter with ammonia remover in it for a couple days now and it isn't getting any better. I use a RO/DI unit with In
stant Ocean Reef Crystals to make the water. Any suggestions or ideas?

 

[ktomminello]

Is there maybe something stuck in it decaying?

 

[klcon1]

I thought that but there is nothing in there for it to get stuck in. Its an empty bucket of water. I had a maxi jet in there to keep it flowing so it didn't get stagnant so I took that out too, just in case. I'm completely stumped.

 

[obscurereef]

How long do you mix the water and leave it in the bucket? If I leave my water in a BRUTE bin it smells foul and there is some residue.

 

[klcon1]

obscureeef- I leave it all the time. I keep about 44 gallons ready in case I need it. I usually run a maxi jet in the bucket to keep the water moving around in the bucket so it doesn't sit still and get nasty. I had a brown film too and cleaned it out with a sponge and filter.

 

[obscurereef]

Yeah that's probably the issue. I'm not that paranoid/prepared that my tank is going to crash, but it's nice to keep 5 gallons off to the side. It might be better to just have RO/DI water with no salt added. Add the salt when needed. I have a powerhead when mixing saltwater too and even when on, if the saltwater is mixed for 3 or more days it starts to smell.

 

[ktomminello]

Refugium anyone?

 

[klcon1]

I do not have one. I only have an issue with the water for water changes. My aquarium is good.