Help me pick out an RO/DI System?

[Draco]

I am a total newb when it comes to RO/DI systems.. After some chats here with the members, I decided to invest in a system for my 28 gal nano. Obviously I won't be making a whole lot of water for a smaller tank.

 

I am on a budget and I am looking to spend less than $200.

 

I live in a condo, so something where I don't have to store water or store a big piece would be a plus. Something where I can hook up to my sink and store beneath. Make as needed water sort of thing.

 

Here's one I was looking at.. but again, I am not sure what all I need or if I need any extras. Being a newb, I am hoping for something "plug and use" type of thing- if there's such thing!

 

http://www.bulkreefsupply.com/brs-4-stage-value-ro-di-system-75gpd-2.html

 

if anyone can point me to a cheaper system, even refurbished, that would be great too!

[skyzpop]

This is the system I purchased and I love it.

 

http://spectrapure.com/RO-RODI/RODI-SYSTEMS/Refurbished-90-GPD-RODI-System

[Draco]

thanks! Higher GPD for cheaper price, though refurbished. Nothing wrong with refurbished items as long as its done right! I've bookmarked the page.

 

still seeking other options to compare with

[GTi]

thanks! Higher GPD for cheaper price, though refurbished. Nothing wrong with refurbished items as long as its done right! I've bookmarked the page.

 

still seeking other options to compare with

I have the same one. They call it a refurb but it looked brand new to me. I think AZDesetRat has posted something to the effect that they are effectively brand new.

[CJJon]

thanks! Higher GPD for cheaper price, though refurbished. Nothing wrong with refurbished items as long as its done right! I've bookmarked the page.

 

still seeking other options to compare with

 

Don't bother--get the refirb unit. None better and they make THE best filters for our needs. FYI, you may need a booster pump if your water pressure is below about 45 psi. I have the pump that boosts my 35psi to 60. The pump they sell is great and Made in 'Merica.

[Draco]

I have no idea what my water pressure is, lol. I guess I can try it, but if I discover if I need it, I can get the booster pump later

 

thanks everyone! Makes my research easier when the majority says to get the refurbished. I'll be ordering it after my trip

[bdevillier19]

i have the refurb unit as well and love it. i am lucky enough to work a block away from spectrapure so i was able to go pick my unit up but i can say that they package the unit very well. they are also very help and knowledgeable and as said above, they make best filter out there.

[ajmckay]

I have the BRS 5 stage unit and like it a lot - it's given me 0 TDS water (from ~100 at the tap) for quite some time now on the same set of filters and comes with plenty of extra tubing, a variety of install options, and overall a solid unit. I actually don't even use the DI resin at the moment.

 

Obviously the spectrapure refurb has a good reputation as well.

[Circle_City_Bill]

This has worked well for me:

http://theh2oguru.com/reefkeepers-rodi/the-typhoon-reefkeeping-rodi-5-stage-with-asov.html

[AZDesertRat]

I sold a AWI Typhoon III for a Spectrapure and there is no comparison. My DI life went from 150 gallons per cartridge to 830 measured gallons on the very first replacement and over 1000 ever since.

No other vendor specially treats all their RO membranes proven to increase their performance or custom blends all their own reef specific DI resins and only a very few use the better quality low micron, near absolute sediment filters and capillary tube flow restrictors.

 

There really is a difference and it adds up to lower cost over its lifespan and better water quality. If you are shopping by initial cos talone then you are doing yourself a disservice. Look at each filter and component and how it protects everything downstream, saving you money in replacements and not requiring upgrades like many system to actually work as advertised.

 

No RO system by itself can give you 0 TDS water, it is impossible since a RO membrane is only a 90-98% efficient device. The membrane is also not efficient or effective at many contaminants such as nitrates, phosphates and silicates so it takes both RO and DI to get to 0 TDS. I am guessing you are using an inline TDS which lacks accuracy and is not truly ATC temperature compensated. A good handheld meter with ATC will tell the whole story.

[lilmatty5dimes]

Here ya go. Try this one out. I know my city water has Chloramine and that's pretty bad and will kill your monti's.

http://spectrapure.com/RO-RODI/RODI-SYSTEMS/Chloramine-Removal-90-GPD-RO-DI-System