Hooking up an RO/DI unit

Ok so I've been looking into buying an RO/DI unit. The only thing keeping me back is the installation process. This is porbably a stupid question but do the units need to be directly installed to your plumbing of the house or can you fill a container up with water and let the RO unit pull from that? I like to do my water changes pretty frequently but having to drive about 15 miles to the LFS and paying for the water is adding up very quickly. Any and all feedback would be awesome.

Travis

 

These can be permanently plumbed or they can attach to a cold water output (or even your kitchen sink usually)

 

Here--Hope this helps
http://www.3reef.com/forums/filters-pumps-etc/step-step-pics-ro-di-install-62743.html

 

Thanks Robman, that really helped out.

 

Thats what we do here...That is exactly how I learned everything. All from the people here on 3reef!!!;D

 

Thanks Robman! My unit is coming on Monday and I'm sure I'll be confused.

 

The installation is straight-forward. Mine came with a saddle valve which clamps onto your cold water pipe. There is a rubber seal to seal it so it doesn't leak. The valve includes a sharp point so when tightening the valve for the first time causes it to puncture the pipe so water can be fed to the RO unit. Check out these instructions.
Saddle Valve Installation

The RO unit must be run off your house water. It can't work off a reservoir of water because it needs water pressure to operate.

 

Just ask..I'll be glad to help...Your avatar pics are beautiful...I live in flat cement city!!

 

kc, where was your new avatar picture taken?

 

Thanks! I've been to Nevada (that's the closest to Texas I've been) and it was so flat I couldn't believe it!! lol Really different than what I'm used to.