am i ready for soft corals

Even a lot of "spring" waters have minerals added. I would personally only use water that tests at 0 TDS.

 

I wouldn't use bottled water unless it is distilled. The bottled water industry is less regulated than tap water is, believe it or not.

 

thanks everyone for the info , one more ? i can get ro/di the only problem its a hr drive which is ok but can i store the water in a closed bucket till i need to top off.(standing still water )

 

I am not sure how long standing water is good for. It would need to be completely covered of course. Hopefully someone else has more input on that.

But, have you looked into getting a RO/DI system for your house? Once you factor in the cost to buy the water and fuel to and from, you may be better off just buying your own unit. SpectraPure is highly recommended by quite a few members.

 

They sell nitrate reducing pads to put in mechanical filtration system as well as the all clear pads that work wonders for me make sure you you keep the neusance algae to a minimum to help reduce nitrates they thrive on nitrate if your hosting an anemone you should be fine for softies better buy some power heads

 

If you are using the API for nitrate - stop. In my experience it's only good for ammonia and nitrites for cycling. I've used it also and always had high readings. Used it once on my 40 FW and it read 160. Cross checked with Elos and it was actually 5 mg/l. Who knows how much water was wasted with 20 gallon WC's once a week and still reading high. Take a sample to your local store and have them test it with a different kit.