RO & Anything RO Related

[tucker81]

when do i know they need changing? ive the same pressure as normal going in but reduced flow coming out, i think they need changing but just wanted to check, if they do, do i just take old ones out and put new ones in?
cheers

tom

[Gazza]

Hi Tom,

You should see the readings going up like the PH and TDS or even pressure dropping off so best to test what is coming out of the RO unit.

[tucker81]

cheers gazza, flow has reduced coming out off the unit, ill check readings

tom

[Koi Man Dave]

I used to use RO when I was breeding discus doing around 80 percent Daily water changes when growing them on, the membrane would last me approx 12 to 14 months and then I would replace it to ensure top water quality at all times.
I found when the membrane was near its end flow rates would be reduced along with higher ph readings,
Found it was great for growth rates on discus however I believe the mass water changes were producing the growth rates along with the correct ph.
I found for every 100 gallons being produced approx the RO unit would dump out around 60 percent to waste.
I will not go on as after all this is a koi forum so apologies guys.

Haven't used one on the pond as yet so I couldn't pass judgement.
I'm a firm believer that water changes and a good diet is key to growth of a fish irrespective if RO water is used on not.

[Brockp]

Guys;

On a purely practical note for somebody who is thinking of going the RO route i.e. me, who have you found is the most reliable/reasonable cost supplier for the system components?

I am looking for about 50 gals a day and will need to pump the feed as I have low mains water presssure.

Peter

[tucker81]

ive found alan at purewater to be very reasonable and always willing to help http://www.purewaterproducts.co.uk/

tom

[Gazza]

Hi Peter,

Yes i use Alan at pure water products

[Brockp]

Thanks guys for the quick reponse.
Peter

[Gazza]

We aim to please Peter

[tucker81]

i have a 450cc flow restrictor on my ro unit, if i increased this would it increase my good ro water ?

tom

[Gazza]

Hi Tom,

You can put a bigger restriter on and get a better flow but remember your putting more pressure on the membranes so be careful and make sure you flush regularly.

[tucker81]

cheers gaz, i flush for 2 mins every hour i think, is that enough? also whats thenext size restrictor?

cheers

tom

[Brockp]

This is one for the clever guys out there, it is a two part question;

1) Would my RO membranes last longer if I took my supply from the "softened" water supply that supplies the rest of the house?

2) What are the pros and cons of using ion exchange resin chamber as part of the RO system ?

Peter

[Gazza]

Hi Guys,

There are a few different flow restrictors but i use a needle valve and adjust myself to where i think is OK.

I use a water softener before my RO unit and not only do the membranes last and function better the pre filtration lasts lounger as well

[tucker81]

cheers gaz, where di you get water softner from?

tom