Mixing station size?

carpetride · Dec 26, 2025

I’m returning to the hobby and, as I suspected, and have discovered, much has changed after 18 years.

I have ordered an IM EXT 200 and I am not in a hurry to set it up. I want all my support systems fully laid out and functional first. IM’s factory sump is 74 gallons, let’s assume that is part of the conversation. For now I plan to do regular water changes but as I read more and more, those may not be as necessary as it once was. Respect to those that are down that path and successful, if get there then great but I want to plan for what I know…for now.

One tank for RO/DI and one tank for Mixed. So what say you? Size of each? 100 gallon each? I think I prefer thin cylinders but have the room for other shapes and sizes. Things you would do different now vs what you have?

RedReefer · Dec 26, 2025

I would probably only do 50 gal each. After your Initial fill you'll never really need 50 gal at a time for maintenance. Tall skinny cylinders. Always mix your salt fresh for water changes. Try to use frewsh mixed salt within 7 days. Remember you will need to be able to move the holding tanks to be cleaned. I pressure wash mine 2-3 times yearly.

ndrwater · Dec 26, 2025

I think 100 gallons for each is probably overkill for a system of your size, but to each their own.
Storing mixed salt water for any great period of time can be problematic depending on the salt you use.
I have a 100 gallon RODI tank and a 55 gallon mixing/salt water barrel for my +/- 250 gallon system.
One 55 gallon batch is a perfect water change for me

Peace River · Dec 26, 2025

carpetride said:
I’m returning to the hobby and, as I suspected, and have discovered, much has changed after 18 years.

I have ordered an IM EXT 200 and I am not in a hurry to set it up. I want all my support systems fully laid out and functional first. IM’s factory sump is 74 gallons, let’s assume that is part of the conversation. For now I plan to do regular water changes but as I read more and more, those may not be as necessary as it once was. Respect to those that are down that path and successful, if get there then great but I want to plan for what I know…for now.

One tank for RO/DI and one tank for Mixed. So what say you? Size of each? 100 gallon each? I think I prefer thin cylinders but have the room for other shapes and sizes. Things you would do different now vs what you have?

I have (2) 65g Norwesco poly tanks and that has worked well for me. Although my largest tank right now is a 75g (as well as several others) I did have a 150g in the past.