Choosing an RO System for Large Carnivorous Plant Collections

Choosing an RO System for Large Carnivorous Plant Collections

Jake (Tinley Park, IL) has a huge CP collection and can't afford distilled water. Asks what RO system the nursery uses, and if it can stay outside in sub-10°F winters.

Nursery System: GE Merlin (Now Hydrologic)

• 700 GPD capacity.
• Retrofitted for garden hose; fills two 300-gal tanks + shallow well pump.
• Housed in a heated shed.

Merlin is now marketed by Hydrologic. Search link.

Right-Sizing for Home Use

700 GPD is overkill. Calculate your daily usage, then search by GPD rating. Countertop units exist. Hundreds of models—pick based on budget, space, and output needs.

Key Takeaway

Nursery uses a commercial 700 GPD Hydrologic Merlin in a heated shed. For home, size to your daily gallonage; don't overspend on capacity you won't use.