tap water for diy 2-part

[chris1017]

If I am using tap water for my wc's and top off is it ok to use tap water to mix my diy 2-part solution. (calcium chloride and baking soda)


chris

[Randy Holmes-Farley]

Yes, that is likely OK, or at least way less bad than the top off. :D

[chris1017]

thanks randy, I have learned more chemistry from you in the last few months than I have in all the coral books that I have read in the last three years.

thank you for taking your time to share your knowledge and experience with all of us.


chris

[Randy Holmes-Farley]

You're very welcome.

Happy Reefing. :)

[HighlandReefer]

Baltimore has some older houses with copper and lead in the water pipes. Using tap water for your water changes is really risky. You could be adding nitrate, phosphate, silicate and assorted heavy metals to your tank not to mention the chlorine and/or chloramines added by the water authority.

Randy goes into more details in this article:

Tap Water in Reef Aquaria
http://www.advancedaquarist.com/issues/jan2004/chem.htm

[chris1017]

I have switched back and forth with and without ro/di as I do have a unit. In my back and forth I have not noticed any difference with my tank either in coral or algae growth. I aslo don't keep many sps at the moment. eventually will start only ro/di water.


thanks
chris