what's best ?

[jswinkle]

So I'm fairly new to the saltwater side of this...been freshwater for 25+ years... but it blows me away with all the different answers I can get from the same question..one lfs says one thing another will say some thing different...I know we all have our opinions but its just crazy..filtered water..Yes. others not a big deal.. I can see how some people can get super confused with this if they don't know much

 

[Reefing Madness]

Whats best, is to use RO/DI water, to the point. If not, you never know what your getting in your city or county water.
RO/DI with the right salt mix, and you have taken one headache out of the equation.
Take it from me, I ran a SW system for a few years using tap water, fish are fine with it, the tank always looked like crap with all the sponge and algae growth.
Run a huge Algae Turf Scrubber, then you can use what ever you want, as this stuff will filter whatever is in the water.

 

[jswinkle]

This week's water change was rodi water..about 10 gallons for a 60 gallon..corals weren't doing much so it had me wondering.. next question..I've been running a canister filter but no protein skimmer and doing weekly water changes.. not sure if I definitely need one or not

 

[Reefing Madness]

Watching your water pamarmeters is key, if they start to get out of hand, then a good skimmer would be of great service to you.

Marinedepot.com | Reef Tank Parameters

 

[Bpb]

Keep one thing in mind when seeking advice for your tank. If your LFS tells you something contradictory to what you're advised by experts on a forum you should have red flags popping up. ESPECIALLY if they tell you to ignore forum advice. Primary reason...Who is trying to sell you something? Who is taking your money for their products? Who has an agenda driven by profit? I'll point out. I dont have anything against a good LFS or making a profit lol. Just saying...I would seek the advice of someone who is an expert and giving advice from their own generosity and interest in my success...LONG before I sought the advice of someone selling me something. Just saying. That goes for more than just the aquarium trade. I love a good LFS to get to see my livestock before I buy it, and see certain equipment actually running before buying. Plus its fun to window shop. But I generally avoid talking to the propieters and employees. Anyhow. Use RODI. Eliminate the chance of unknown problems. RODI water allows you to start with a blank slate. You dont know what the water treatment company may change seasonally. If you use RODI, You're starting with perfect 0 TDS water every time, and only what is in your balanced salt mix will get into the water. it's just easier to start with good parameters, than try to correct shortcomings of tap water.

 

[fishroomlady]

I agree in that some people can have success in the hobby with using tap but it's so much better to have your primary ingredient (water) of a tank to be high quality. There are many varying opinions on lots of things in this hobby but the forums can be so helpful. Most on here have been at it for years and want to share their knowledge with people just coming into the hobby - many times, this can be helping others avoid some of the pitfalls we've made along the way.

I ran a canister on my FO tank for years and it was fine for fish but I'd suggest that either you get meticulous with cleaning the canister or not use it. I've never run a saltwater tank without a skimmer, I know it can be done but I consider it a pretty essential piece of equipment. I finally got rid of my canister and have a sump now and it is soooo much better! Is running a sump a possibility for you? There are so many advantages to having one (more water volume, equipment and cords out of sight, can put other things like an algae scrubber or grow macroalgae to help with nutrient removals, etc....).