Is RO worth it?

[FrankSlapperinni]

I have been look ing into RO systems, becaseu I was thinking about a saltwater tank, and I have seen many "replacement membrane's" for sale, at a very hefty price. and I was wonderinh how long the membrans last before they ware out. and also, what is the best type of RO filter? I don't need a big one, since I don't have much aquarium space, but I have heard many things like 3 stage RO units and stuff like that. also, I know that RO units lower pH, but to what or by how much? I have Basic water (8.2) and wanted to keep some more acidic Fish. one final question, does the RO filter also lower carbonate hardness and alkalinity ( DH an KH)?

 

[3kgtman]

YES!!!!

without a doubt the investment has paid off tremendously in our 180 saltwater tank. SPS and Clams do extremely well, in fact we havent had any algea or cyano (sp?) outbreaks since we started using RO water, (we stared a refugium at the same time though)

Hope this helps,

Brian

 

[Lateral Line]

There is no way I would have had the successes I've had without my RO unit.

>>> and I was wonderinh how long the membrans last before they ware out.

In my unit, about 2 years.

>>> I know that RO units lower pH, but to what or by how much?

Depends on the source water and the unit. My single stage unit drop pH 8.7 to 7.2, and 24 hardness to 3.

 

[ste2k3]

the membranes should last for years without replacement. the prefilter will need replacing about every six months depending on the sediment concerntration in your tap water. I would never be tempred to buy a second hand RO unless you know the person. this is because that if the membrane dries out then, it is no good. (i say this because there are quite a few second hand RO's coming up for sale)