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changing to a higher GPD membrane?

Discussion in 'General Discussion' started by Tholton33, Apr 17, 2012.

  1. Tholton33

    Tholton33 Well-Known ReefKeeper

    537
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    can I change to  a higher GPD membrane to my RODI unit?
    just change the membrane and the flow restricter?
    also on this topic, do membranes need to be flushed? some companies swear by it, other do not condone it what so ever. 
    thanks for your time
     
  2. blackx-runner Administrator Website Team Leadership Team

    Cedar Rapids, IA
    Ratings:
    +738 / 5 / -0
    I switched from a 75GPD unit to a 150GPD unit, and it really doesn't make water any faster. I think it takes more pressure to run the higher GPD membranes. The membrane does seem to last longer though. As far as flushing it I couldn't tell you if it helps or not. My setup has a fast flush valve and I flush the membrane occasionally.
     
  3. Tholton33

    Tholton33 Well-Known ReefKeeper

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    did you change the flow restricter when you changed membranes?
     
  4. Kpotter2 Expert Reefkeeper

    North liberty, IA
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    +7 / 0 / -0
    I have done this many of times and know it works. When I went from a 24GPH membrane to a 100GPH membrane you could see the increase in R/O water and wast water.. 24 up to 150gph can be done with correct flow restrictor with out a problems.
     
  5. Tholton33

    Tholton33 Well-Known ReefKeeper

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    thats good to hear, i need to change my membrane soon anyway, so i might as well just move it up to the 150 gpd and flow restrictor. Thanks!
     
  6. Kpotter2 Expert Reefkeeper

    North liberty, IA
    Ratings:
    +7 / 0 / -0
    Yes for the price for sure. I think ebay you can get them for 35 to 40 bucks. They work great and just got a 75gl one ordered Sunday.. total with 5 stage replacement filters and membrane was 56.00 bucks..
    60 when you include the restrictor..
     
  7. Tholton33

    Tholton33 Well-Known ReefKeeper

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    60 is a good deal! im trying to decide if i should make the switch to SpectraPure filters/membranes. Yes they cost more. But they have 25+ years in testing and have results to back their products. its the price that steers me away lol
     
  8. Reeferforlyfe

    Reeferforlyfe Inactive User

    655
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    BRS, I stock up on all my filters. Was going to swap out my membrane as well. 75 GDP is enough for me and my 180. If I need ro/di water that bad, I must have f&$@3d up something in my tank lol.. I just keep a 40 gal brute container full, and make sure my ATO bucket is full when I do a WC because I do it in my RODI bucket.
     
  9. AJ

    AJ Inactive User

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    I was going to go to a 150, but AWI recommended that I not go higher than a 75 for my unit (Hurricane Dual Home/Reef with Permeate Pump and Tank - http://www.airwaterice.com/product/HURRICANE/Hurricane-Dual-HomeReef-with-Permeate-Pump-Tank.html). I believe that it was because it has the permeate pump attached...so if you have one, consult the vendor that you purchased it from before upgrading the membrane.

    --AJ
     
  10. blackx-runner Administrator Website Team Leadership Team

    Cedar Rapids, IA
    Ratings:
    +738 / 5 / -0
    I guess I should have been more clear. I switched to an entirely different RO/DI unit. I just didn't change to a higher GPD membrane. I went from the AWI compact 75GPD reefkeeper to the big bad extreme typhoon III 150gpd with all the pressure gauges and multiple TDS meters. I'm glad I didn't have to pay for the thing, because the extra crap on the unit isn't worth the extra price.
    Whats your goal in switching membranes? Do you need to make RO/DI water faster, or are you wanting less waste water? I believe the 150gpd membrane still has the same reject rate. So if its the latter you'll still be in the same situation.
     
  11. Tholton33

    Tholton33 Well-Known ReefKeeper

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    That make sense, home kits with the pump are limited. My goal is faster water, since all the membranes have the same rejection ratio. In the future would be a dual membrane so I get less waste water.
     
  12. blackx-runner Administrator Website Team Leadership Team

    Cedar Rapids, IA
    Ratings:
    +738 / 5 / -0
    Make sure you're running the correct pressure for your membrane. A booster pump may be needed as well depending on your house pressure.
     
  13. Tholton33

    Tholton33 Well-Known ReefKeeper

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    I'm lucky enough to have close to 80psi in my current housing situation. But its possible that ill need one when I move.
     

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