RO / Spring water question...

[SkinnyPete]

I was shopping around for a new or used 75 - 90 gallon setup when I realized that I have room for a 120 (wooo hooo!). Anyway, while I'm planning and setting up a budget to make sure I can afford everything, I listed a RO purifier as a must - but, then I realized that I have access to free spring water where I live. I get it in 5 gallon bottles.

Anyway, I'm wondering if I can use this spring water instead of buying a purifier. Can someone give me an idea what I would test this water for - other than chlorine and ammonia - just to see if it is usable? That would save me some cash as far as my initial costs go.

Thanks, guys and gals - I'm averaging 1-2 questions per day, so hopefully someday soon I can give some advice back.

- Petious, Skinnious

 

[quarryshark]

You can have your LFS test for TDS. Also check for PO4.
Spring water still may have some things in it that you don't want. I would still consider the RO/DI unit. It will pay for itself in time.

 

[lando]

"Spring water" is ussually not a good choice. It is loaded with minerals and even some metals that you do not really want in your tank. It may be a bit better then regular tap waer, but RO/DI is highly prefered.

 

[SkinnyPete]

D'OOOOOHHH!

Okay, so looks like the RO/DI is back in the budget. I don't want to skimp on anything - I just thought that might save me some cash if I could use the spring.

Thanks as usual all.

Make sure to check back for my next exciting and mind stimulating question.

 

[quarryshark]

Its always nice to save some cash, but water quality is one area I would not try.

Make sure to check back for my next exciting and mind stimulating question.

Look forward to it.

 

[30_gallon_guy]

just a question for whomever, im seting up a thirty gallon tank.
do i need r/o water if their will only be fish and live rock in the tank, or can i use r/o with corals as well.
thnks
let me no

 

[quarryshark]

I would use RO water in any SW system.