[Joedirte83]

Welcome to the hobby Michelle. I just recently started myself around 1.5 months ago, so I'm basically new too. I have started a build-up for my 29G BioCube as that one is about to come to an end as my 65G receives water this weekend. I wish you luck in your adventure.

Now about an RO/DI unit, I would strongly consider buying one. At first, I wanted to go the route of purchasing water from the LFS but after about 100 gallons, at $1.00 a gallon, I said enough. With that money I could have been half way to the purchase of a RO/DI unit. I recently purchased the Kent Marine MAX50 Maxxima....best investment I have made in regards to fresh/saltwater related purchases. If you look at the percentages of removal, the Maxxima series (not including the Hi-S models) will remove 99.9% across the board. Whereas all the other ones I have looked at will only do 99.9% on certain chemicals/toxins, i.e. the Hi-S only removes in the low 90's for nitrates versus my 99.9% (non Hi-S models). I have already produced over 300 gallons of product water since I started using it....$300 at the LFS. That more that the unit itself.

Some people complain about the 3-to-1 water to product ratio of most RO units but it doesn't really bother me. I use the waste water for the garden and plants around the house. I also give it to the dogs. Plus my homeowners covers my water bill so I never see an increase in water costs.

If you are interested, Costco makes a 0 waste water RO unit that is only available at Costco, so you would need a membership or have to know someone with one.