RO/DI system - Typhoon Help!

[lfs_150g]

After much time reading a good amount of postings about RO/DI units, it appears that the majority are recommending the Airwaterice Tyhpoon system. I checked out the website and have narrowed it down to two systems: the basic $150 unit and the $199 Typhoon III. I need help deciding since I am relatively new at this hobby and have a limited budget (like the most of you)!The water will be used for a 72G tank, with 20% changes every 3-4 weeks. From what I read, the Typhoon III offers the following features additionally over the regular Typhoon and would like to know if the extra cost is worth it for my needs:
Fast Flush: I understand that this is used to extend the life of the membrane, but some people say its more for people that go through a mass amount of water. I figure 20 gallons/month with top offs and regular changes for my needs. So is this a necessity?
The DI Bypass: From what I have read, this is primarily used only the first time you use the DI cartridge to clear up the sediments from first-time use. If I don't have one of these, can't I just toss the first 5 gallons of filtered water and get the same effect?
The RO only valve: I do plan on using this system for drinking water, and I know that the end result of filtered water through both the RO and DI is not 'as healthy' as if I drank it pre-DI. So I do want a RO valve. Can I just go to the local hardware store and buy parts to make my own? Or is there more to it - such as drilling out a tube on the system
TDS Meter: I know that this is a good tool to have, as I can monitor when the DI filter is going bad by the increase in dissolved solids. So I will want one of these - but I assume I can just pick it up at my LFS for cheap.
So thats about it. There is a $50 difference between both units, but the core systems are the same. My tank only has a few fish, a bunch of live rock, some snails, crabs and shrimp and some anemones. So I'm not a

[hr]
hobbiest - but I do want clean water w/out taking trips every few weeks to the LFS!
I appreciate any advice and knowledge you can provide before I lay down the cash!!!

 

[phishface]

I got a 6 stage ro/di on e-bay for $62, brand new. It has the fast flush and auto shut off valve included. It's still new, but so far I'm pleased with the purchase. Good luck on whatever you decide. :happyfish

 

[f14peter]

I got a Tiffie III, but if money is a concern, then you'd probably be fine with the $150 unit should you go with an AirWaterIce unit (other than the TDS meter).
Frankly, I didn't give it too much thought . . . the Typhoon III was highly recommended, and had the extra perks that were already there should I want/need them in the future. I suspect that you could modify the system later with DIY gadgets should you want to. The manufacturer may sell spare parts, and at least the exact same ball-valves in the kit are available at some homestores like Lowes, plus other things like T-fittings and adapters.
I'd have to reread my manual, but I think there's more to the DI Bypass than just initially flushing the system, IIRC you're just to let the unit run with the treated-water outlet closed and sending everything to the waste-water outlet. It might have something to do with firing the system back up after an extended period of non-use.
I believe the manuals are available from the manufacture's sight in PDF form if haven't read them already and want to learn more about how each system and it's various functions work.
I do recommend getting either their float-valve, or one elsewhere, it really helps as it will shut off the flow to your collection bucket . . . no risk of overflows and you don't have to pay rapt attention to it as it fills.

 

[ghettotang]

I would recommed get the Kent Marine Deluxe Maxxima Hi-S because that what I bought. It's a 4 stage filter with comnination of reverse osmosis/deionization filter that produce 60 gallon a day. It comes with garden hose fitting, pressure gauge, and the TDS meter. I think you have to buy the valve and flush kit seperate because I have not seen this product that sell in one shot. Most people that I talked to is that Kent Marine product like this RO/DI last longer and is best product.

 

[cgrant]

the kents that i have seen are pretty expensive compaired to airwaterice, but i have not actually looked for them online? Just what ive seen @ lfs.

 

[lfs_150g]

I initially looked at other brands, but then from what I read on here is that airwaterice makes high quality ones for a resonable price. They seem to be comparable quality-wise to the Kent Marine units. I'm a bit leary of the internet ones from the horror stories I have read...defective units...leaking...etc.
It appears that the DI bypass is important to have if I am a part time user of the system (every month or so). Concur?

 

[ghettotang]

Originally Posted by CGRANT
the kents that i have seen are pretty expensive compaired to airwaterice, but i have not actually looked for them online? Just what ive seen @ lfs.
I agree that Kent product is expensive when buying at your LFS, but if you order it online i bet you is less expensive compare to at the lfs because that's where I bought mine. CGRANT if you look some over the internet I would say that it less expensive compare to at your lfs. Try to compare the price over the internet and at your lfs and see if which way it saved you money. When I went to my lfs and ask them how much is their Kent Maxxima Hi-S RO/DI unit for 60GDP they told me is around $360 dollars, but when I look at the internet price I saved about $150 dollars. Thats why your best bet is buy it on internet. When you buy over the internet ask them a question before you but it.