Paul
Good to see another Long Islander on this board...I thought I was the only one
"anyway im looking at all the ro/di units out there and i think im more confused the ever! $$ is somewhat of an issue only because of the wife. no offense ladies! do i really need one?"
-first time i read this I thought you were asking if you really needed a wife...lol..
Not sure what you know about RODIs but here's a little info that could help:
Don't get anything less than a 4 stage unit...That is 1
sediment filter, a
carbon block filter, a membrane, and DI canister. A lot companies sell RO units (without the DI canister---which is the best part!). I too have the no-money-plenty-of-ambition problem, so for me the 25 gallons/day membrane was enough for my 72.
Basically when your buying an RODI your paying for the name, you can take the DIY path and save a lot! I have 2 threads within the last 2 days pertaining to this (if you haven't read them yet, take a look---and if you have any questions send me a pm)
BTW, there are 2 main reason I wouldn't use ocean water from the south shore...
1. You could introduce unwanted pathogens to your tank
2. Real ocean water will biologically die-off, and has a reduced buffering capacity as opposed to its synthetic couterparts.
IMHO, get an RODI, it's really a nice/benefical constant to add to your tank.
HTH
Pete
