distilled water

Hi I have been using distilled water for my top offs and mixing for 2 years. However I have heard people say that distilled water has some negative effects. If so what negative effects does it have and can I switch to ro/di even though I have been using distilled for 2 years.

 

It depends on how it was distilled ? what coil tubing was used ? Copper with Lead ? S.S ? It needs to be replenished also with some elements as it to sterile and pure unless as I mentioned some metal may have leeched into it from the condenser coil tubing.

 

Like Tangster said, depending on the equipment used. Alot of the time distilled has copper traces in it, which is detramental to SW. I would use RO or RO/DI. You may want to run media for a while, I think it's called Cubrisorb.

 

Good point on the Cubrisorb or what ever its called I run it all the time here . Better to be safe then sorry.

 

Can u guys tell me a little more about cubrisorb????

 

CupriSorb
Powerful absorbent of copper and heavy metals. Rapidly extracts all types of copper from filter beds allowing invertebrates into aquariums previously treated with copper. 100 ml. treats up to 60 gallons and removes over 1300 mg. of copper. May be regenerated. Fresh or saltwater use. We recommend using a Fine Mesh Media Bag with the 250 ml. size

I have used both products I prefer the Kent's myself

Kent's Toxic Metal Sponge
Regenerable blend of macroporous weak acid cation resins. Removes copper, lead, arsenic and other heavy metals from any aquarium. Use with a 300 micron filter bag. Treats 60 gallons.

 

Any downside to running full time.?

I just use tap water, but am concerned about slow build up over time. I test for every few months but yet to get positive result.

 

As I said I run it 24/7 just like caron and Purigen . I like the Kent's better as its easier to regenerate with a simple soak . I use it to lock any residual metals from element supplement .. And just in case some lead or copper or zinc may get pass my R/O D.I If you run just tap water then by all means you should run it ..
But no down side

 

Will get some...Thanks.