"The Filter Guys" RO/DI recommendations?

[bigtank]

I have a 12g nano cube with a bad algae problem, up to now just using dechlorinated tap water. I recently tested both the tap water and aquarium water-phosphates for sure, didn't test for silicates but there probably are some.

Since I don't need a lot of water on a constant basis, I would like to get a reasonably priced (under $200) basic RO/DI system with a faucet hookup for less frequent use. I've looked at some different brands and have heard good reviews on The Filter Guys products. I'm considering particularly:

Ocean Wave 5 stage 75 gpd- $135
Ocean Wave Plus 5 stage 75gpd- $160

The regular Ocean Wave looks so compact and simple to set up, not sure about a smaller DI cartridge though. I could get that unit, TDS meter, pressure gauge, and faucet adapter for under $200. Any opinions?

 

[KDodds]

Have you looked at pricing at Air/Water/Ice? I'm not sure if they can beat those prices on 75gpd units, but with a nano, geesh, why would you ever need that much production?

 

[bigtank]

I always thought that the gallons per day ratings were for ideal conditions, 77 degrees and all that. I don't need that much water, sure, but that would let me obtain what I need faster.

Oh yeah, I just looked at Air/Water/Ice and now you have me thinking- they have this "mighty mite" portable RO/DI for 100 bucks.

I would like to place an order today so any other recommendations are appreciated. Thanks.

 

[badhand2222]

aqua safe, at the ebay store has a great R0/DI for 80$ shipped

 

[virginiadiver69]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=10922184#post10922184 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by KDodds
geesh, why would you ever need that much production?

Just because it CAN do 75 gal does not mean it HAS to.

I love thefilterguys. Jim is the best when it comes to answering ALL of your questions. Let me put it this way: He picks up his own phone by the third ring!
I would go for the five+ and add on the psi gauge. The horizontal DI unit on the other one will not perform as well. Never mind the dual tds meter, I have found it inaccurate. A hand held model would be better. They sell the one that both WaterKeeper and AZDesertRat recommend.

 

[KDodds]

Well, true, but unless you're planning on adding more tanks, it's more costeffective to go with a lower production unit, I think.

 

[virginiadiver69]

Do yourself a favor, stay away from eBay on this one. Don't get me wrong, I LOVE eBay but you are best off staying with a dedicated reef company for the most important piece of equipment in this hobby.
At the very least don't buy anything until one of the water gurus chime in (you know who you are).
As far as the mighty Mite goes...it is ONLY $60 less than a proven performer.

 

[AZDesertRat]

It is not more cost effective to go with a lower production unit. The membranes cost the same regardless if they are 25 GPD or 75 GPD in most cases, or no more than maye $5 to $10 difference at most. The advantage is a 75 makes water 200% faster than a 25 GPD does so you time is less to make enough water for a water change.
Plus ost compact type units will not have standard sized DI so refills or replacements will not last as long and will cost significantly more to replace which actually makes for a more expensive uit in a short amount of time.
I think the 75GPD Premium from www.buckeyefieldsupply.com is pretty darn hard to beat at $161. It comes with both an inline pressure gauge and a handheld TDS meter as well as true reef quality filters.

 

[bigtank]

Okay, what kind of fitting is best for a removable faucet connection? This is an apartment and I can't really alter any pipes or anything like that.

 

[AZDesertRat]

Look along the left side of the Filter Guys page under "Tap Water Fittings". There are a multitude of options including a screw on faucet adapter that comes right off with no permanent alteration or better yet a tee type valve that screws right into the cold water line under the sink and feed the RO that can also be removed later with no damage. They also have the garden hose adapters if you have a washing machine hook up.

 

[bigtank]

Thank you. I ordered the 75gpd Premium from Buckeye. I should be able to find a faucet adapter locally.

 

[Paulairduck]

I have had great luck with the filter guys