using brass fittings for Ro unit??

[goofyreefer]

I was just wondering if it would be a bad idea to use brass fittings on a RO unit for my reef tank. I can only find brass "T's" and shut off valves for the .25" tubing around here. I don't really want to mail away for them since shipping would cost me more than the fittings.

 

[Anonymous]

I ask a similar question a few months ago regarding brass ball valves. The concensus to NOT use brass fittings to insure that copper and other harmful metals would not leach into the water over time. Plus PVC last forever (well almost forever :wink: )

Bummer, if you cant find plastic locally. But, better safe than sorry!

Louey

 

[goofyreefer]

Yeah I was leaning towards that notion myself. I guess when I need to place a order for whatever it may be in the future I have something to add to it. Thanks for the reply.

 

[SPC]

Goofyreefer, you might be able to find the .25 fittings you are looking for in the sprinkler supply of a Home Depot or Lowes. If I remember correctly the drip irrigation systems use a small line. Anyway these stores have a sprinkler section that may have these.
Steve

 

[2poor2reef]

It would be interesting to know how much copper really leaches out of a brass fitting in fresh water over time. Given that some of the fittings are in front of the filters and other factors it MIGHT be that it doesn't leach enough to be of consequence. But I don't know of any study that would provide that information. Clearly the better choice is plastic but it's not always available.

I mean, there is a certain amount of copper in the foods we feed and the salt mixes that we use, isn't there? Even natural saltwater has some trace level of copper.

 

[dmm32]

Hi,

My unit has brass fitting, been using it for 5 years with no problem at all.
my tanks are stacked with corals.


David

 

[Dewman]

Hi,

My unit has brass fitting, been using it for 5 years with no problem at all.
my tanks are stacked with corals.


David

But are they stacked with Inverts? :wink:

 

[dmm32]

Dewman

Yes,I have several diffrent inverts in the system as well, I really dont think the brass causes any problems at all. Just my 02cent worth.


David

 

[Anonymous]

My home like about 1/2 of the hmes in the nation are plumbed with copper pipe. Having a brass fitting or tee ahead of the the RO Di unit will add little more to the problem. Don't use any copper or brass after the filter and you should do just fine.

 

[Dewman]

Oh, I see. Sorry, didn't realize it was pre-filter.