storing water how long is too long

[Osama]

I want to store RO/DI water in a large open top container for my son to take care of our 180g tank. Will the water be OK for 3 weeks.

 

[philakapd]

Good question. I've always wondered the same thing myself. When I first started making my make up water, I contained it in a five gallon bucket and tossed in an airstone for circulation and oxygenation. I did find it to be a plus to try and cover the top of your container; for both evaporative reasoning and to keep out dust and other foreign matter.

You are much better off if at all possible to have your RO water dump into your sump on a daily basis. It is very little water and will not affect your water temperature and salinity levels as much as waiting a week and then adding in more water. Look into auto shut off valves; either at the faucet or inside the sump. There are literally hundreds of set-ups possible.

If this is not an option, I don't see why you couldn't store it in a container and place a powerhead or airstone inside with the RO water.

Good Luck,

Phil

 

[sally1]

I store my RO/DI water in buckets for three weeks or longer and have never had a problem. I just put a lid on them and store them in the garage and no circulation. I think it will be just fine..but I would put a lid on it to keep dust out and such.

 

[Anonymous]

As long as there is a lid,there is no problem keeping water for weeks. Without a cover dust and airborn particles(especially detergents and house cleaning sprays) will get into the water and foul it. Dust alone will foul your RO/DI water.

 

[Osama]

Thanks Dan Sally & Phil: I will store it in 5 gallon water containers & 5 gallons buckets & cover them.
Phil: the water will be added into my 3-4 gallons RO/DI system that feeds my Nielsen reactor that makes up for evaporated water. I do not trust the solenoid shut off valve on my RO system to do the job So I am better off storing the water for my son to not get too nervous. Last time he had full responsability for the tank he did not like it!!!!