RO/DI

[chef]

Is RO/DI water essential for keeping Sps in a reef? I've been using tap water lately with a Brita tap filter. Tested for phosphates and nitrates and both were pretty much 0. After putting some Sps in my tank, I did a large water change and it's been downhill from then. Lps and fish r thriving. Thoughts?

[neoh]

Sounds like your water might be a little *too* clean.

[chef]

Its possible. I'm running a filter sock, Pelkets, no refugium . Would corals starve that quickly? I feed a clam, mysis, mussel etc., seafood mix I make and would think this would be sufficient for all involved.

[Reef Pilot]

I doubt that your tank would be too "clean" if you are not using ro/di water. What are you using to test for phosphates? I used to think my phosphates were low until I got a Hanna digital phosphate checker.

[chef]

I'm using Elo's test kit for phos, calcium and alk. Has anyone had success with tap water and Brita in a reef. Im going to buy the vertex puratek from j and l and hope my luck changes.

[Fesso]

I would say that you will have a very hard time keeping sps without RODI. Do you have a way to test the TDS of your tap water?
The Vertex Puratek is great (with the booster pump it makes water really fast and with less waste) I'd say it's one of the most important pieces of equipment you can have.

[chef]

Yea, I agree Fesso. Shoulda installed one a year ago. Thanx

[brizzo]

What is your dKH, Ca, and Mg at ?