Completely clueless on RO/DI

Thank you guys for all the help!

Thinking about pulling the trigger on this one!... Just to be clear, I can just attach this and run it when I need it and then unplug this if I want correct?

That shouldn't affect the unit in any negative way would it? Or do I need to have this running the whole time?

 

You don't need to run it all the time, just make sure you don't run it in small batches. I have heard it lowers the effectiveness.

 

With this refurbished unit, do I need to purchase anything else (i.e. TDS meter or anything else?) If so, can you guys tell me which is best for this and easiest to hook up to it as I know nothing about installing / setting up any of this...

 

respectively, your post could not have been any more wrong.

TDS meter, and extra filter set (sediment, carbon, di) is always good to have on hand when they need replacement.

YouTube video on how to hook it up, very simple.

 

You will want a handheld TDS meter in addition to the Refurbished RO/DI unit. That is the unit I would recommend.

How do you propose to hook it up? The units come with a garden hose thread adapter that will screw on an outside hose bib or spigot or on to the cold water supply of the washing machine by using a simple brass garden hose wye adapter with ball valves available at WalMart, Lowes, Home depot etc for about $6-$8. A faucet adapter is also available but not my first choice since it ties the faucet up for however long it takes to make your RO/DI water but is easily disconnected when done. There are also other adapters on Spectrapures website in their misc plumbing sections.
I use the wye on my washing machines cold water supply myself.

You can disconnnect and store the system in an aout of the way, climate controlled place like under the sink or in a cabinet or closet as long as you keep water inside the housings so the membrane and resin do not dry out. You should use the system at least every 7-10 days if possible to keep it fresh.

Contrary to what someone mentioned, you do want and need DI in addition to RO. RO by itself only gets you 90-98% of the way there, it takes the DI to get to 0 TDS which is your goal. RO/DI systems are not all alike, just like automobiles are not all alike or anything else. With someone like Spectrapure who has been around over 25 years and in the reef hobby themselves you cannot go wrong. They also support many or the reef forums and are happy to answer questions and offer support.

 

Thanks for all your help!... My question is does this not include the DI part?

It says : Refurbished 90 GPD RODI System , So I assume the DI is part of it that comes or I still need to purchase this part separately?

Refurbished 90-GPD RODI System

 

Yes it is included with that system. All you will need to add is the handheld TDS meter and any adapter other than the hose thread adapter if you choose. You can also find faucet adapters and feed water adapters at Lowes and HD so it can be added later locally.

Don't buy a replacement DI cartridge too far ahead of time as DI resin has a shelf life and will wear out just sitting there. Monitor the water quality with the TDS meter and when you first start to see any TDS in the finished water after running for a couple minutes its time to order a new DI. i would keep track of the date/timespan or the quantity of water made to establish a pattern or history so you know about when to order the next replacement. The sediment and carbon block filters do not have shelf lives so can be bought ahead of time for their 6 month replacements.

 

Would this Tds meter suffice? Anything in particular I should be looking for in a handheld Tds meter?

HM Digital TDS-3 Handheld TDS Meter, 0-9990ppm

 

The HM Digital TDS-3, TDS-4TM and their new AP-1 series are all very good choices. All have auto temperature correction and built in digital thermometers so serve dual purpose. They are also 2% +/- accuracy which is good.
I use their more expensive COM-100 myself but its overkill for most users at $60. Had the TDS-3 and TDS-4TM before that all are fine meters.

http://www.tdsmeter.com/

 

Thanks again, put the order in for the RO/DI system... Should have it soon!