Tap water filter

I live in the phoenix area, as you might know we have some of the worst water in the country- we live in a desert for heavens sake! anyways, I have been really thinking about getting a water filter for my tank. I would ask the people at my local pet store, they are not the worst for advice, but I wanted you guys to give me some insight as well (so far I am finding this place to be very helpful)

I found this system on the web. It is a little blue tube and you screw it on to your hose. Could I use this to fill my tank, or just for small changes, or not at all? Do I need a de-ionizer, RO, or a more sophisticated system? It says that it is good for tropical fish changes, what do you guys think? One more thing; I know this is probobly a stupid question, but does soft water create any problems- im sure it doesnt but I thought i would ask anyways.


"Tap Water Filter
Eliminates chlorine and impurities, place inline in refill hose, rated 6,000 gallons,125 degrees. Removes chloramines and chlorine from tap water used to fill discus fish or angel fish aquariums and water changes on all tropical fish aquariums.
TAP WATER FILTER
Price: $49.00"

 

If an extra $75 or so is not a big deal I would definitely buy an RO/DI unit as this unit will remove elements in your tap water that a plain chlorine filter will not. IMO an RO/DI unit is a MUST for this hobby.

As far as the softness of your local water being an issue there are buffers you can buy for purpose.

 

That tap water filter is no more than a DI unit. I would also recommend spending a little more to get the complete RO/DI unit.

 

+3 Spend a little extra money for a lot better water...

J

 

I agree the tap water filter requires replacement far faster than a full RO/DI unit so it ends up paying for itself quickly. Check out ebay there is usually a ton there

J