i used to use RO for my hydro setup, what a waste of time. all my buddies run right out of the tap which is what i do now. PPM is around 150 and PH is between 6.5 and 7.5 usually. oakland california water!
It can take a while to begin to understand water chemistry. My well water is 500ppm + and I do not have any extra water to waste in a RO unit. Not only that but when you have calcium, magnesium and iron deposits that build up on faucet screens, showerheads and appliances your water would also completely clog your RO membranes in no time unless you put in a water softener before the RO unit. I much prefer to use rainwater and melted snow. Less money and hassle. No salt buildup, clawing of my plants or unstable ph with rainwater.
yes chloromine is a beneficial nute killer.....kills all your organic goodies. dont ask me how i know. the only thing that will remove it is a charcoal filter.what is the main thing to look for in the city's water analysis report and if chloromine is in the water is that a no no thnks in advance
Buy an r/o unit with a backflush valve and for $15 you've solved the problem you stated. I'd much rather start off with something pure and have control over what goes in my water.
There is no way you can backflush heavycalcium deposits. You need a water softener. Water softeners remove calcium and magnesium and iron and replace it with salt. Salt easily backflushes and the membranes remain usable for much longer. RO is not needed unless it is difficult or impossible to collect rainwater. RO wastes water backflushing. Use RO if you wish but know that there are cheaper alternatives that are just as effective.