Info on RO/DI Systems

[TLe041]

Hi all,

Rather than deal with those blue water cooler containers any longer, I've decided it's time for me to look into purchasing an RO/DI system. I'm trying to gather as much information as I can before I settle on a unit. My tanks only total 40 gallons, so a high GPD rating isn't crucial. They will be used in freshwater tanks with very sensitive livestock, so I'm looking to get as low a TDS output as possible. I am also planning on starting a nano-reef tank in the very near future (in a month or two) so it should be suitable for that as well. Is there anything I should be looking for or avoid? My goal is to get the best bang for the buck.

So far I'm leaning towards this one: http://www.bulkreefsupply.com/store/75-gpd-ro-di-5-stage-deluxe-system.html

Can anyone suggest a good alternative from a local retailer?

Thank you.

[Malyon18]

This is the unit I have always used, there are also a couple of my friends who are running the same one. I have never had any problems with the unit and always get 0 TDS and they are a canadian company

http://www.aquasafecanada.com/aquarium.html

[NjOyRiD]

Aquasafe systems - free shipping
or Vertex at goreef - free shipping

[redbelly]

I believe that marinescape has the aquasafe units in stock and that Fishtails has the vertex units.

[Fortix]

I have the bulk reef supply one and love it.  You won't find a system with the filters you get with BRS.  It's the best deal out there.

[TLe041]

Thank you for your replies everyone.

What are your opinions of this system? http://cgi.ebay.ca/Reef-Aquarium-Reverse-Osmosis-System-Float-Valve-RO-DI-/230468250463?pt=Small_Kitchen_Appliances_US&hash=item35a8fa6b5f

The seller is in Ontario.

[JetJumper]

Interesting, they say "  - Higher than 75 PSI Add pressure control valve to fix the pressure @ 60 to 65 PSI."

I run about 80 off Almonte's main water supply.  I wonder why they say this?

[TLe041]

I would assume that 75 PSI is the pressure entering the system from the pipes (in this case, it'll be my cold water faucet line) and not the pressure entering the house from the utilities.

Here's their website on that particular unit: http://www.maxwaterflow.com/5-Stage-75-GPD-Reef-Aquarium-Reverse-Osmosis-System-Float-Valve-RO-DI_p_396.html

[redbelly]

I would suggest that you support your local fish stores and buy one of the quality units that ANY of the ovas sponsors carries.

Or pick up a used RO (one just popped up in the classified) and replace the filters.

IMO this is the only way you can be sure you are getting a quality unit and if there is an issue there is a local vendor to go back to for assistance.

[moused]

I am in the same boat looking for a ro\di system.
I just picked up my 125gal tank...yay.

lots of different systems out there that I can see.  Lots of reading to do.

Key factor that I've learnt so far is watch out for what type of filters get included in the systems.
Here is what' I've found to date: (under 200$)

Top two that I've found based on reviews are:
The filter guys - Good filters and know what they are talking about, good reviews
Spectra Pure - currently on sale, pretested filters, good reviews

others:
Filter Direct - unknown filters, from California
AquaSafe - maybe swap filters, vert install DI, getting ok reviews for short term, ebay
Bulk reef Supply - replace ro with the 75gal filter, don't forget about shipping.
Bw Plumbing - Good ratio
PureWater - replace with 75 gal membrane, mount di vertically, very cheap systems, but ok for short term
Soumi Knight Systems - replace ro filter with 75gal DOW membrane one, ebay
I'll add more links when I get home...

Notes:

• Ottawa has CHLORAMINE in its water.  Therefore you must have a carbon filter that will remove this.  so added cost to a ro\di unit (always negotiate a swap of filters)
• Always call local stores once you know what your looking for to see if they have that system in stock (saves on shipping/convenience)...support local LFS!!
• Careful with a used system...always assume all filters need to be replaced
• Never assumed a shipped system is plumbed up correctly out of the box.

Yes I know there are LOTS of others out there when you start looking over 200$ there are lots of options...This is what i've found this week.

Next step: to find out what the local LFS has!...oh and keep researching.

Keep updating thread and see what you find too....