RODI setup

dave01282000 · Apr 6, 2023

This probably seems like a simple question to many - I want to set up my water prep area in the basement, because frankly it's the only place I have room to do so.

The only water line going down there is for the washing machine; can I just use a standard Y fitting to split off the washer and the RODI, and just route the wastewater down the same PVC pipe as the drain for the washer? I think I saw where you can drill into the PVC and attach the wastewater line with a fitting.

Thanks!
Dave

Dom · Apr 6, 2023

dave01282000 said:
This probably seems like a simple question to many - I want to set up my water prep area in the basement, because frankly it's the only place I have room to do so.

The only water line going down there is for the washing machine; can I just use a standard Y fitting to split off the washer and the RODI, and just route the wastewater down the same PVC pipe as the drain for the washer? I think I saw where you can drill into the PVC and attach the wastewater line with a fitting.

Thanks!
Dave

That's exactly what I do; split the cold water going to the washing machine and connect my RODI feed.

spectral_ranger · Apr 6, 2023

Yeah, there are multiple options for fittings. If you don't want to saw the line and put a splitter in, you can just use a saddle valve. I've used those in the past without any issue, both for copper and PVC lines.

dave01282000 · Apr 6, 2023

Also, will I be better off with a booster pump when making RODI water? I have a well and the pressure is serviceable but not particularly strong throughout the house.

Dom · Apr 6, 2023

spectral_ranger said:
Yeah, there are multiple options for fittings. If you don't want to saw the line and put a splitter in, you can just use a saddle valve. I've used those in the past without any issue, both for copper and PVC lines.

Saddle valve is a good alternative.

But you don't have to saw the line to install a splitter. He just needs to disconnect the cold water line from the washing machine and screw on a "Y" adapter with separate on/off thumb levers.

danielankeny · Apr 6, 2023

I love my Smart Buddie booster pump! I collect water MUCH more rapidly and looks like much less waste water

dave01282000 · Apr 6, 2023

Appreciate the quick replies, I went ahead and ordered a smart buddie just to head that off. I have a 7 stage RODI system on the way and still need to get some brute trash cans, 5 gal buckets etc. Slowly coming together.

Thanks again!

danielankeny · Apr 6, 2023

Fun times! Consider a float valve to connect into the Smart Buddie. Mine has already saved my butt and floor and I’ve only had the system for 2 months! $15 well spent!

dave01282000 · Apr 12, 2023

Ok so I have the RODI system unpacked and booster pump is set to arrive today...need to go get some containers to start making water!

Trying to visualize a system here...maybe a brute container for RODI water and another for mixed saltwater? Guessing if you keep a lid on it, you can store indefinitely as water doesn't exactly go bad. From what I'm seeing, I'll need a dedicated powerhead for mixing. Not thinking I'll need a heater, at least during summertime?

RODI operation is in the basement and will need to shuttle water one floor up to the living room...as for water changes, is it easiest to transfer from the brute can to a 5 gallon bucket, for example?

Thanks!

dave01282000 · Apr 13, 2023

The Smart Buddie showed up today and I just started figuring out how to hook it up. The manual says multiple times that it's rated for 50-100 GPD RODI units.

I have the 7 stage 150 GPD from BRS with the water saver...is this going to cause an issue if the booster pump is only rated up to 100 and I have a 150 GPD RODI system?

Thanks!

danielankeny · Apr 13, 2023

I’m not sure, mine is the 100gpd BRS system. I think as long as it boosts the pressure to 70-90psi or so it should improve your collection. But the only way to know for sure is trying it with and without the booster.