RO/DI cost effectivness

[JohnMcNic]

Hello, currently cycling my tank, and at the moment I use hosehold tapwater with a dechlorinator. I know that this isn't the best and would like to up my water quality, and was wondering which is more cost effective: purchasing RO/DI H2O from my LFS or supermarket OR purchasing a RO/DI setup. The setup I am looking at is a Coralife 4 stage 50GPD system. It runs for about $140 from Drs. Foster/Smith.

http://www.drsfostersmith.com/Product/Prod_Display.cfm?pcatid=12093&N=2004+113775

Just wondering what ya'll think!?

Thanks!!!

[Lotus99]

I'd say that with a 75g tank, you're better off getting your own unit.

[drummereef]

Get your own RO/DI unit. I'd stay away from the Coralife as they don't get the best of reviews. Check out the sponsors on RC. My first choice would be the Spectrapure MaxCap. http://www.spectrapure.com/St_MaxCap-RO-DI.htm The best on the market bar none. My second choice would be the Ocean Reef +1 from www.thefilterguys.biz It's a great unit for reefers on a budget. ;)

Whatever unit you get make sure it has a 75gpd Dow Filmtec RO membrane. :)

[dc_909]

I say no to anything Coralife.

I have an Optima Ca from purelyh2o, and have satisfied for 2 years so far.

[JohnMcNic]

Do you just order replacement filter from the compnay that you bought the unit from, or can you use a generic filter?

[bertoni]

Most of the filters have standard-sized cartridges, so the replacements are interchangeable. Some of the Home Depot filters, though, for example, have proprietary cartridge sizes.

[JohnMcNic]

The Ocean Reef +1 from the Filter Guys looks pretty good, anyone have any experience with it?

[saabore]

I just ordered the maxcap RO/DI. should have it within the week. Drummereef pointed me in that direction and after researching leaned towards the spectrapure unit. BTW, thanks Drummereef for your input and links.

[Gdevine]

I just go to my LFS; they do an rodi filtering process that has many redundent processes before they sell it and it has virtually zero TDS...

For the $2.50 per 5 gallons it's a good deal...puls it give me a good reason to go to the shop:)