what's a good R/O unit

[bodom_tallica]

I was just wondering what R/O units are good that aren't overly expensive.

[Aquadude]

Aquasafe. No need for anything more expensive IMHO. Aquasafe Ebay Store (http://stores.*********/The-Aqua-Safe-Pure-Water-Shop_W0QQssPageNameZl2QQtZkm)

[Hark]

Aquasafe. No need for anything more expensive IMHO. Aquasafe Ebay Store (http://stores.*********/The-Aqua-Safe-Pure-Water-Shop_W0QQssPageNameZl2QQtZkm)

works for me as well.....i have a unit from aquasafe and i am happy with it

[CroatianGuy]

one more aquasafe wote

[Mugster]

What did you all end up paying for the units? I see the bidding starting at $.95. Or did you select the "Buy Now" option?



Kev :twitch:

[CroatianGuy]

220$- ro di unit(100gpd), 5g holding drum, tds meter, psi meter, set of 5 replacement
prefilters, 4 di cartages. buy now special

[RonPeter]

I also have the Aquasafe unit, very happy with it, I paid $105.00 Canadian shipped to my door.

[create_a_reef]

Ditto, I have had a aquasafe system for about 4 years and I bought a case of the replacement filters with it and I still havent used them all yet. Great great systems!

Brent

[IlikeTVO]

Do you guys recomend buying the "5 replacement prefilters, 4 di cartages" right away? How fast did you go through in with your typical aquarium usage?

[CroatianGuy]

if you get everything at once shipping is free for the rest of the items(no extra charges for aditional boxes)

[Mugster]

Do you guys recomend buying the "5 replacement prefilters, 4 di cartages" right away? How fast did you go through in with your typical aquarium usage?


How fast the carts exhaust depends on the water quality in your area and how much water you filter. I go through a sediment cart every month.



Kev :twitch:

[Mckitrick]

I'm another AquaSafe user.
Rather than get the removeable DI cartridge, you should get the clear rechargeable one. It's got colour-changing resin so you have an idea when to change it.

I've dealt with Ed/Aquasafe in the past and he's a super nice guy. Based out of BC

[boyohboy]

woh those'r awesome price for RO/DI system and replacement filters... I wish I knew about that seller before I bought mine used...

[steve w.]

Thank you Aquadude.I went to the e-bay store last night and purchased a R/O for $75 plus $37 shipping U.S. That's a lot less than arround here.

[diveninja]

Happy user hear as well make sure you take advantage of the replacement filter deal (keeps em cheap!) :-)

Len

[Mugster]

Is this the same unit everyone is referring to?


http://cgi.*********/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=20684&item=4387339004


It states the seller is in Washington, not BC. Is this the same company?



Kev :twitch:

[xnigelx]

im lucky enough not to need one. my store is 1 mile from me. and since i only buy stuff there, they give me free water. im really good friends wth the owner

[IlikeTVO]

Is this the same unit everyone is referring to?
http://cgi.*********/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=20684&item=4387339004
It states the seller is in Washington, not BC. Is this the same company?
Kev :twitch:

Same company AFAIK; I'm about to buy one was well.

I asked about the Washington address directly and it was implied they're actually Canadian or otherwise based in BC but has some arragment with a fullfilment house to service US customers. He/they were very clear that anything order by a Canadian will ship from BC.

They also confirmed I could order all three conneciton types for an extra $10 (rather then 1 for $5).

BTW they also have one with a tank for only $10 more.
http://cgi.*********/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=20684&item=4385715127&rd=1

[RonPeter]

Yes they are based in Vancouver, BC so there are no duty charges or brokerage fees.

[Aquadude]

Is this the same unit everyone is referring to?


http://cgi.*********/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&category=20684&item=4387339004


It states the seller is in Washington, not BC. Is this the same company?



Kev :twitch:

Yep. That's the one I have. No problems with it. Although my backflush valve leaks a few drops of water when washing off the membrane but I only do that once in a while.

[Sydney]

My water guy suggested that I buy a USA made system. I didn't know why so I ended up buying the Aquasafe 100GPD because it was SO much cheaper. The system I bought was the 6 stage with the disposable resin cartridge for demineralization. I have had it 2 months now and I am generally happy with it.
I upgraded and bought a permeate pump (aquasafe did not sell these at that time) to reduce the waste. Apparently it will reduce the reject/product ratio from 5:1 to 1:1. I am not sure accurately what improvement it made, but I thought it was worth the expense. I haven't added the auto top off yet to my tank, so I have to make a suggestion to buy an extra pressure tank for more water storage when you need it. I think it is a good practice to reduce the pressure a psi or 2 in the additional tank.
Another thought about the permeate pump, although a good idea to reduce waste, it is a little noisy. I installed my system in the basement under my bedroom, and the ticking it makes can drive me a little crazy.
I made the mistake of running tap water at the beginning, and was hoping the switch with my own RO/Demineralization unit would take of the hair algae problem we created. Don't make the same mistake we did and use RO/Demin water from the beginning
:beam: Sydneys Hubby

[aquagrl]

My water guy suggested that I buy a USA made system. I didn't know why so I ended up buying the Aquasafe 100GPD because it was SO much cheaper. The system I bought was the 6 stage with the disposable resin cartridge for demineralization. I have had it 2 months now and I am generally happy with it.
I upgraded and bought a permeate pump (aquasafe did not sell these at that time) to reduce the waste. Apparently it will reduce the reject/product ratio from 5:1 to 1:1. I am not sure accurately what improvement it made, but I thought it was worth the expense. I haven't added the auto top off yet to my tank, so I have to make a suggestion to buy an extra pressure tank for more water storage when you need it. I think it is a good practice to reduce the pressure a psi or 2 in the additional tank.
Another thought about the permeate pump, although a good idea to reduce waste, it is a little noisy. I installed my system in the basement under my bedroom, and the ticking it makes can drive me a little crazy.
I made the mistake of running tap water at the beginning, and was hoping the switch with my own RO/Demineralization unit would take of the hair algae problem we created. Don't make the same mistake we did and use RO/Demin water from the beginning
:beam: Sydneys Hubby

I just purchase the same unit from eBay. I hear what you're saying about the algae - I'm just finishing off a bout of cyano that I believe was primarily caused by tap water. Aquasafe recommended not paying for the unit until they send me their electronic catalogue so that I can see what other options would make sense to order at the same time. Other than the permeate pump, what options would you recommend? If they don't have a permeate pump as part of their offering, can I ask where you purchased yours and what it cost?

Thanks

[steve w.]

I wonder how many Aquasafe systems have been sold since the begining of this post?I bought one last sat. My buddy is ordering one,and I see you've ordered one too aquagrl

[aquagrl]

I wonder how many Aquasafe systems have been sold since the begining of this post?I bought one last sat. My buddy is ordering one,and I see you've ordered one too aquagrl

Yes, I wonder too. We should see if they'd donate a portion of their profits from sales directly related to posts on this site to AquariumPros.ca!!

[steve w.]

I'm just hoping it works.

[RonPeter]

I'm just hoping it works.

I'm sure it will.

[Aquadude]

Permeate pumps can be bought from CUSTOMAQUATICS (http://www.customaquatic.com/customaquatic/searchhomekeyresult5.asp) for $62 U.S. Cheapest place I have found them.

[steve w.]

Well it finally came today.My new aquasafe ro.I ended up paying $146 canadian.It's a nice size,I didn't know what to exspect,pictures can be deceiving.The only thing odd is I have to get them to e-mail the instructions and warrenty.

[Aquadude]

I don't know why they just don't get a bunch of copies of the instructions made and include them in the box. How much would that cost vs. the hassle of having to e-mail everyone a set. BTW I still have my instructions. If anyone is having trouble getting Ed to send them, I could put them up on my website.

[LUIGI]

AP sells permeate pump as well...
being here in Canada...there is not the pain like the Custom at the border,and the UPS/Post shipping
Permeate PUMP (http://www.aquariumpros.ca/store/view_product.php?product=ERP1000)

[steve w.]

What's a permeate pump used for guys?I wouldn"t need one for my ro?

[Aquadude]

A permeate pump uses pressure from the waste water to boost the pressure going into the membrane. It allows your RO unit to produce filtered water faster and reduces waste water. It doesn't need any electricity, it works on water pressure. It works best with systems that have pressure tanks for storage of RO water.

[Mugster]

I'm looking for a new RODI unit. I'm looking for opinions on this model.


Ebay Aquasafe RODI (http://cgi.*********/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=4393733361&category=20684)



Thanks,
Kev :twitch:

[motopsycho]

I'm looking for a new RODI unit. I'm looking for opinions on this model.

[Thanks,
Kev :twitch:

I won about 10 days ago now, came to about $120C including taxes and shipping, not a bad price.

Don't have any opinion yet as I'm still waiting for it to get delivered so and can start my tank.

[steve w.]

I got mine in June.I paid $146canadian after everthing.I looked arround alot before I bought mine.This by far, is the best deal I found.

[BlueNWhite]

I got mine in June.I paid $146canadian after everthing.I looked arround alot before I bought mine.This by far, is the best deal I found.

So do you order right from that link, or do they also have a Canadian link to sell directly to Canadian customers? Do they ship it 'from' Canada even though the link appears to be selling it from a US location? Thanks.

[BlueNWhite]

I'm looking for a new RODI unit. I'm looking for opinions on this model.


Ebay Aquasafe RODI (http://cgi.*********/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=4393733361&category=20684)



Thanks,
Kev :twitch:
I also just noticed quite a difference in price between your price and motopscho's. Any particular reason? Thanks.

[twizttid1]

Aquasafe has different systems.... some with the pressure tank, some without... some that are 4 stage, some that are 6 stage... some systems come with the TDS and PSI meters some don't.
Personally, I bought a 6 Stage RO/DI system from them, no pressure tank, but it included a TDS and PSI meter...... All for $110 US shipping Included.

They actually ship out of Vancouver (so no brokerage/duty fees) and they will do all transaction in CAD but their Ebay austions are all in US funds.

[motopsycho]

Aquasafe has different systems.... some with the pressure tank, some without... some that are 4 stage, some that are 6 stage... some systems come with the TDS and PSI meters some don't.
Personally, I bought a 6 Stage RO/DI system from them, no pressure tank, but it included a TDS and PSI meter...... All for $110 US shipping Included.

They actually ship out of Vancouver (so no brokerage/duty fees) and they will do all transaction in CAD but their Ebay austions are all in US funds.

I won the same system off Ebay, I don't know if they have a website where you can make a purchase. I followed the pricing for about two weeks, some days one would go cheap and the next day it would cost you $50 more, it just depends on the demand. You have to watch cause they will throw different systems up with different additions (ie TDS Meter).

Mine I think was actually $126 cause initially I forgot to add in the PST or GST, well one of the taxes.

Chris

[RonPeter]

Hey Kevin I have the 6 stage unit from them and am VERY happy with it! I have been running it 7 monthes now and it is a good unit in my opinion.


I'm looking for a new RODI unit. I'm looking for opinions on this model.


Ebay Aquasafe RODI (http://cgi.*********/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=4393733361&category=20684)



Thanks,
Kev :twitch:

[BlueNWhite]

I won the same system off Ebay, I don't know if they have a website where you can make a purchase. I followed the pricing for about two weeks, some days one would go cheap and the next day it would cost you $50 more, it just depends on the demand. You have to watch cause they will throw different systems up with different additions (ie TDS Meter).

Mine I think was actually $126 cause initially I forgot to add in the PST or GST, well one of the taxes.

Chris

Hello Chris, thanks for the update.

That would be GST, unless they were also registered for Ontario PST.

[gerwen]

I would be curious to know what the specifics of each stage of the filter is. It's not too clear in the auction listings.

For best results i think you should have a filter with
Stage 1: 10micron Sediment filter
Stage 2: 5micron carbon block
Stage 3: 1micron carbon block
Stage 4: RO
Stage 5: DI

The 3 prestages bring everything down to 1 micron in a gradual manner ensuring long life of the media in all the stages.

Anything outside of this method and you may compromise the life of one of the stages.

I tried emailing these guys a month ago for recommendations and specifics of their filters, but my email must have fallen into a black hole somewhere, as i got no response.

[notclear]

I tried emailing these guys a month ago for recommendations and specifics of their filters, but my email must have fallen into a black hole somewhere, as i got no response.

I bought my 6-stage unit with tank and spare cartridges one year ago. I'm VERY happy with it. At one point I contacted them and they told me they have to handle over a thousand emails every day and yours may just have slipped away. So you may want to send it again.

[RonPeter]

I bought my 6-stage unit with tank and spare cartridges one year ago. I'm VERY happy with it. At one point I contacted them and they told me they have to handle over a thousand emails every day and yours may just have slipped away. So you may want to send it again.

I second that...I bought mine 7 monthes ago and am very happy AND my 2 e-mails I did send to Ed where answered in 2-3 days so I am very happy with their support as well!

[BlueNWhite]

I am about to buy one of these units, so I would appreciate some quick responses.

I would like to be able to use it for drinking water as well.

Should I buy the Aquarium model or the Maximus model, and what would I need to do so that the one I buy can work for both drinking and aquarium purposes??? Also, what additional products SHOULD I or NEED to buy at this time???

Thanks,
Raymond

[H20_Science]

Hey I dont carry a model called the Maxximus?

Which system are you refering to?
Bryan

[ajx22]

I am about to buy one of these units, so I would appreciate some quick responses.

I would like to be able to use it for drinking water as well.

Should I buy the Aquarium model or the Maximus model, and what would I need to do so that the one I buy can work for both drinking and aquarium purposes??? Also, what additional products SHOULD I or NEED to buy at this time???

Thanks,
Raymond

Stongly consider the PurelyH2O units - as they are a MUCH better filter - and are designed to be used on Aquariums (the AquaSafe units are NOT).

More info = http://www.reefexperts.ca/xcart/home.php?cat=266

Best regards,

[BlueNWhite]

Stongly consider the PurelyH2O units - as they are a MUCH better filter - and are designed to be used on Aquariums (the AquaSafe units are NOT).

More info = http://www.reefexperts.ca/xcart/home.php?cat=266

Best regards,

I am very close to making my purchase. I just PM'ed PH2O. I will be calling you any minute now. I definitely would prefer to support a sponsor on here instead of buying from a non-sponsor...

Thanks,
Raymond

[Reef Raft]

Stongly consider the PurelyH2O units - as they are a MUCH better filter - and are designed to be used on Aquariums (the AquaSafe units are NOT).

More info = http://www.reefexperts.ca/xcart/home.php?cat=266

Best regards,I'm sorry but just have to say something here and ask a few questions.

Aj, you said the AquaSafe are not designed for the aquariums but weren't you selling this units before PurelyH2O came aboard?

I don't think your statemnet is appropriate because we carry and sell AquaSafe units and had been using these units for a very long time and we have had good results.

Have you ran PurelyH2O units? If so, for how long? Are you currently running a tank now, or ran a comparison test that you see the difference between the 2 units? If so, please explain.

What are the difference between PurelyH2O & AquaSafe... advantages & dis-advantages.

Please DO NOT take any offense to this as we at Reef Raft just want to educate ourselves further.

Thank you.

[ajx22]

I'm sorry but just have to say something here and ask a few questions.

Aj, you said the AquaSafe are not designed for the aquariums but weren't you selling this units before PurelyH2O came aboard?

We have never carried or distributed the AquaSafe units. We have done work on these units, converting them over to a higher standard. Prior to our partnering with PurelyH2O - we constructed our own water filtration systems from scratch.

I don't think your statemnet is appropriate because we carry and sell AquaSafe units and had been using these units for a very long time and we have had good results.

When you state "very good results" - what parameters are you referring to. Waste to product ratio / effectiveness in removing Phosphates, Nitrates, etc. / and the ability to 'tune' the system to the specific customers individual problem areas - given any of these parameters in excess.

Have you ran PurelyH2O units? If so, for how long? Are you currently running a tank now, or ran a comparison test that you see the difference between the 2 units? If so, please explain.

I have been working with Bryan and his units for the last 6+ years. PurelyH2O is his newest company - prior to this company, he owned ARS (Aquatic Reef Systems) and worked for other very reputable water filtration companies that we have dealt with. ALL of the companies that we have dealt with (through Bryan) - have specialized in providing water filtration solutions for life sustaining environments (ie. Aquariums).

With the systems that Bryan constructs - we do have a long running comparison against other filter manufacturers. We have worked with the AS units, and know the specific variations between the two companies units (such as the DI stage, actual filter media used, etc.). In addition to this - due to the PurelyH20 units being made for the specific application of aquarium use - they are not just a standard Drinking Water System that has been modified to be used in a reef environment, not to mention the fact that there are adjustments to be made in such areas as flow restriction and systems that are designed to be used with a bladdar tank, removing the bladdar tank substancially changes the operating parameters - and this must be addressed though specific modifications.

What are the difference between PurelyH2O & AquaSafe... advantages & dis-advantages.

We are not going to point out specifics - but we can say that though Bryan's knowledge gained from over 10-years of life sustaining water production - he knows the specifics that do need to be addressed, and how to accomplish these adjustments. Other aspects are factors like Solid-Block carbon/vertical DI stages, etc. - which are proven to be much more cost effective then other methods. When specific filters are used to address existing problems - it's cheaper in the long run to have the right media/filter in place - to reduce the needed timeframes for filter replacements.

Please DO NOT take any offense to this as we at Reef Raft just want to educate ourselves further.

No offense taken at all. We are more then happy to try to help to educate the community.

If anyone has any specific questions - Bryan is the best person to direct your inquiries to, as he is our resident expert. He has been very active for years on many of the US-based discussion boards - trying to help to educate the masses. We are lucky to be the first Canadian board to enlist his expertise, knowledge and services - and I would hope we in Canada can and will treat him with the same respect that he has received on the US boards while offering his knowledge and assistance. As busy as he is - you will notice that he is constantly monitoring this site to be able to provide answers to any of your questions regarding water filtration - both via replies and PM's/emails - but also via the offering of his toll-free number.

Thank you.

Sincerely,

[Tictoc]

I'm no expert by any means but isn't 0 TDS from a 120.00$ unit the same as 0 TDS from a 300.00 dollar unit?

Tic

[H20_Science]

We dont have a 300.00 unit that I know of :)


THis is true but you do need to also consider how much the filter replacement charges are going to be and how long you will be able to keep that 0 tds before changing the media.
Sometimes 0 tds is more expensive in the long run than it has to be.

oh - and not to forget - TDS is only the Disolved Solids reading - there are other things being removed as well that aren't registering in TDS - that still need to be addressed.

Bryan

[KevinFJB]

I use a SpectraPure RO/DI (60 gpd) - works fine

[H20_Science]

Spectrapure is a great unit!
Completely designed for its market.

Bryan