Found the source of Nitrates.

[fordman460]

I was doing some troubleshooting based on what I have learned here at reefland and have found the source of my nitrates. In my tap water.
I always use a water conditioner prior to water changes but I guess that doesnt affect nitratres. The reading from my tank water and my tap water are exactly the same. Time to step up to RO/DI. But I have a question....if I buy a RO kit from Home Depot without the DI part will I be OK? Or should I make sure I get one that is specifically for the aquarist? Thank you.

[Reefland]

The home systems are helpful. Any unit is better than nothing, but a good 4 stage unit is preffered. A DI cartridge is much more effective but they are quickly exhausted when ran alone. RO membranes, in addition to sediment and carbon cartridges are added before the DI resin in 4 stage (and up) systems to help increase the life of the DI resin.

[fordman460]

Gotcha thank you. The hunt is on for a 4 stage setup then.

[Reefland]

I use an AquaFX system (a sponsor of here) and although cheaper systems can be found, I like the service I get from them when needed. Most systems are the same, it's the service of the company that's important with RO/DI units. ;)

[BubbaWPB]

I got a small unit from Lowe's (Whirlpool) that seems to do ok, but only does 25 gallons a day. I've recently got a AquaFx system that puts out a lot more water a lot faster, AND tells you how clean it is on the output! (TDS meter)

[fordman460]

I got a small unit from Lowe's (Whirlpool) that seems to do ok, but only does 25 gallons a day. I've recently got a AquaFx system that puts out a lot more water a lot faster, AND tells you how clean it is on the output! (TDS meter)

Actually 25 gallons a day would be more than enough. I only have a 55gal tank so thats not too bad. I looked at the RO units at Home Depot for $159, seems to me for pretty close to the same money (and obviously money is a concern) I can get an RO/DI unit online. Are you happy with the AquaFX unit??