Start Cycle, Wait for RO/DI vs Prime

RamsReef · Nov 17, 2016

Hello,

I have had more setbacks than I care to admit, not with my lack of knowledge and skill but with acquiring equipment / buying. It has been trying.

Regardless.

My RO/DI system has still not arrived and my QT system is ready to go.

Should I wait for RO/DI or can I use tap water with prime to start the cycle and then do WC with RO/DI.

The city tap water is pretty good, just has chloromines in it.
http://www.epcor.com/water/water-quality/reports-edmonton/Pages/wq-daily.aspx

I have 2 x 20gal long tanks for QT.

reeferfoxx · Nov 17, 2016

Tap water shouldn't even be considered, in this hobby.

Harris3005 · Nov 17, 2016

I know this isn't what you want to hear but I'd definitely wait until you get your RO system. It's obviously personal opinion but I wouldn't put any tap water into my tanks, even with prime. I feel like the fish and corals we buy are expensive so why risk it. Tap water quality will fluctuate whereas with RO you know what you're getting every time.

RamsReef · Nov 17, 2016

Harris3005 said:
I know this isn't what you want to hear but I'd definitely wait until you get your RO system. It's obviously personal opinion but I wouldn't put any tap water into my tanks, even with prime. I feel like the fish and corals we buy are expensive so why risk it. Tap water quality will fluctuate whereas with RO you know what you're getting every time.

How do you know, there is a reason my tanks are still empty

I just wanted to see what others thought.