Can I use a home RO system for the tank?

[Ericoral]

We have a 14g BioCube with a mantis that has been running for about a year now. We bought an RO system from a guy on CL and it is a SpectraPure. I believe it is considered "2 stage" because it only has 2 canisters on it. It's not RO/DI. It's time to replace the membrane/filter, but we've been toying with the idea of having a drinking system installed by a local company that does RO systems.

My question is, if we decide to get the RO drinking water system does this mean we can use the water straight out of the drinking faucet to mix the saltwater?

[Jchris896]

You will still have TDS readings with just an RO system. If I were you, I would inquire about adding a DI stage with a separate output to use for your saltwater mix.

[ps2cho]

Add a DI stage on...it'll be like $50, then do a few valves and you can switch from RO to RODI quick and easy.

[M4rz]

Add a DI stage on...it'll be like $50, then do a few valves and you can switch from RO to RODI quick and easy.

That is exactly what I did and so far so good.

[Indymann99]

Yes, I have RO plumbed to 2 refrigerators and then DI to my mix-tank and ATO.

Below is mech room with RODI system, mix tank, and QT

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/nn10/Indymann99/IMG_1441_zps5224a528.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/Indymann99/media/IMG_1441_zps5224a528.jpg.html)

[Ericoral]

Thank you for the input. We aren't using a DI stage at the moment for our water. Just the mantis, some snails and hermits in there. Would the DI make a difference? We do notice what seems to be an overabundance of algae growth and we do weekly 10% water changes.

[Indymann99]

DI will remove the TDS down to 0. Thats a critical part is eliminating sources of unwanted algae...

my input TDS (396)

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/nn10/Indymann99/IMG_1437_zps3b9f7034.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/Indymann99/media/IMG_1437_zps3b9f7034.jpg.html)

RO (only) output TDS (007) - this is also drinking water for the house.

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/nn10/Indymann99/IMG_1439_zpsb5fda270.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/Indymann99/media/IMG_1439_zpsb5fda270.jpg.html)

DI output (000)

http://i300.photobucket.com/albums/nn10/Indymann99/IMG_1438_zps856c3103.jpg (http://s300.photobucket.com/user/Indymann99/media/IMG_1438_zps856c3103.jpg.html)

[Ericoral]

Thank you for the pictures and clarification!!

[webslinger]

Using RO is better than using tap water.