How to test my RO/DI system?

[SueAndHerZoo]

Yep, I'm a blast from the past, haven't been here in ages but am still in the hobby! So my latest concern is whether or not my RO/DI system is really doing what it's supposed to do. I purchased and installed it probably 10 years ago, have purchased the cartridge and filter replacement kits a few times, and pretty much just let it keep doing it's thing. But since my tanks are still really hard to keep clean looking, I have started wondering if maybe all the water I use in my tanks is not as "pure" as it should be. Is there a way to find out if my RO/DI system is still providing the benefits it's supposed to? Yes, I can check with a TDS monitor, but how about other types of bacteria that could be growing? Is there a company that would check my water for all that other stuff that is so detrimental to our reefs?
Sue

 

[JerSaint]

You could send out a sample for an ICP test. Triton, ATI, ect. They would give you a full analysis report.

 

[SueAndHerZoo]

Thanks, I'll Google that.

 

[FragileReefer]

API asks you for two samples: one from your tank and one from your RODI. That test will tell you what your looking for. But just my opinion, I don't there is anything dangerous that could grow in your RODI that couldn't grow in your tank. I would just make sure you run it once a week at least, and TDS test your water and any water containers. I had a barrel that added 80+ TDS because of some nasty residue I couldn't wash out.

 

[SueAndHerZoo]

That post is very helpful - thank you! I don't think we run it at least once a week, probably more like once a month since we store so much RO/DI water, both salted and unsalted. We do check the TDS monitor and I think it showed 1 or 2 last time I checked (making the water is my husband's department) ..... should it be zero?

The information about the residue in the container was VERY enlightening! I know there is residue at the bottom of both of our holding containers, and on our "to do" list for this summer was to empty them, get them outside, and clean them. Better move that up on the list!

I'm thinking of setting up a seahorse tank again and since they are so susceptible to bacterial infections, I want to make sure all possible sources are eliminated before I start. Thanks!
Sue

 

[Bubbabobobbrain]

Yeah it should be at 0 when coming out of the di section for sure. And also keep in mind that the tds meters that we get are hobby grade and can vary quite a bit from a lab grade one so 1 or 2 tds on your meter could be quite a bit more in reality.