Just starting a reef tank; Have a RO/DI question

[newreefer_59]

I live in Okotoks (just south of Calgary) and just starting out a 148 gallon reef tank. Is it generally recommended that all water be run through a RO/DI unit prior to adding salt in my reserve tank?

[Aquattro]

Originally Posted by newreefer_59

Is it generally recommended that all water be run through a RO/DI unit prior to adding salt in my reserve tank?

Some people just use tap water, but yes, it's generally recommended to use RO for any reef application.

[Jaws]

Even living in a city that apparently has a lower TDS reading than most in its water supply, I still noticed a substantial difference to overall system health when I switched from tap water to RO. Don't be fooled by store bought water either. It's not much different than tap water.

[newreefer_59]

Thanks for that. It there a better way than buying an Ro unit form the LFS?

[Aquattro]

Originally Posted by newreefer_59

Thanks for that. It there a better way than buying an Ro unit form the LFS?

No, this is probably the least expensive long term solution around. These things can be found pretty cheap these days. You can even find them used, although you'd want to get new filters, so I'd go new. Check online with some of our sponsors.

[mseepman]

You could review ebay as an option. Lots of people on here have Aqua-safe units.

[JDigital]

Bulk Reef Supply has some good prices on RO and RO/DI units..

[mseepman]

I recently bought my RO/DI unit from BRS...but haven't hooked it up yet. If you are looking for a quality unit, that's where I would go. If you are looking at cheap...then aquasafe will do.

[newreefer_59]

great....is Bulk Reef Supply a store in the Calgary are or online?

Do I need an RO or RO/DI unit.

Many thanks

[Aquattro]

Originally Posted by newreefer_59

Do I need an RO or RO/DI unit.

My first reply answered that....