There are tonnes of sites and webpages with this topic. You can search for making RO/DI water in google and you will find many sites with information.
I'll tell you what I know to summarize what I've read. It sounds like you're new to this.
We filter water to make sure that it is as PURE AS POSSIBLE before we put it in our tanks. That way we can make sure there aren't any unwanted nutrients or things that may harm our tanks.
From my experience the water in the lower mainland of Vancouver is extremely good. Especially in areas that are close to the water sheds or have access to Vancouver's new water filtration system (coming from Capilano and Seymour watersheds). Our TDS is quite often as low as 15-or 10 PPM (0 is ideal).
You can get a DI (De-Ionization) filter which creates NO WASTE WATER for pretty cheap at J&L. Mine last about 12 months before I need to replace them ($35 for the replacement)
For the ultimate in water purity you can get a Reverse Osmosis (or RO) filter. This pushes the water through some filters and a membrane to clean the water. The water that is "BAD" is discarded through a hose and down the drain. Many systems also put a DI (De-Ionization) filter that further cleans the water. This is how you end up with RO/DI water. (These filters cost about $150-$300 depending on the system)
Then add salt and then add it to your aquarium.
You can get RO water from the grocery store. I would test it just to make sure it is ok. As others have said, who knows how often they clean their filters.
I've always used a DI filter. I will likely get a RO/DI filter soon as I have been looking into it. I'm not sure why. I'm always saying that our water here is so clean we don't really need it. But, I've been looking into it lately. Just for insurance.
There you go. My long post which has postponed my inevitable list of house work to be done tonight.
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