Do you actually "need" a RODI eater system?

[bjmartie]

So a few months into my saltwater switch from fresh water. I got a 90g with 40g sump. Got live sand, around 80lbs of rock. Got a few (16 mixed) corals in the tank currently. Tanked my few fish out and running it fallow currently.

Been looking into getting a RODI water system. Up until now, why wife hasn't given we any problems with the amount of money I threw at the tank so far, she actually likes it just as much as me. But now I mentioned needing a RODI water system and she is giving me **** now. Could be cause I just gave her hell for buying 4 pairs of shoes in a month! You can only wear one pair at a time!

But is a RODI system actually needed?! If been filling up a brute with around 30 gallons of water and letting it sit for a day or so, then mixing in my salt. Letting that sit for a day or so and doing my water changes. I have city water and I don't believe it to be terrible water.

But should I just get the RODI?

 

[Mr. Mojo Rising]

Nothing is actually 'needed'. If it was fish only tank and will remain a fish only tank, then rodi is not neccessary IMO. But if you want corals, then you want the best water possible, or you will face problems down the road. Water is as important to corals as oxygen is to us, so its up to you if you want to take the chance, you'll always wonder if that coral is not doing so well because tap water is being used.

Considering how much we all invest in our reef tanks, rodi is really not that expensive in comparison. But if it is an issue, then look into buying distilled water, its cheap and as good as rodi. I did it for a year that way, until I saved for my first rodi.

 

[Dcal]

Necessary = fish will die without it

RODI is not necessary unless your local tap water is horrendous. You can get one for like 80$ on amazon that works decently (i use it). The thing i noticed before using rodi is that you are fighting an uphill battle from the first fill-up so I would advise to get one but you generally dont need it

 

[klawson]

Newb here, I debated the exact same thing. Then I discovered a local club which has a forum with sales allowed, and got a used system from someone getting out of the hobby for $50! I think they had a hard time selling it because most of the other folks already in the hobby already had one. Now that I have it, I'm glad I don't have to worry about whether my water quality is the source of any issues I have in the future. So second-hand might be an option if you're on a budget like me, and check out if you have a local (or within reasonable driving distance) club!