Having very hard water, should I use distilled water to extend the life of the air cooler, or would that not operate as well?
1665832
I don't think it will matter too much; but it would be true that tap water would produce more calcium deposits and then you'd need to clean out the tank for those deposits. I think either type of water would work. I use tap water.
1996882
Yes, but it is RECOMMENDED that you use distilled water. We use distilled water.
378848
I use tap water and have had no problem. I don't think there'd be any problem with distilled water either, but there's not a restriction on the water used.
278989
We use tap water and periodically follow the instructions to use vinegar to keep it working properly. Given the amount of water needed to fill it, I wouldn't spend the extra money to buy distilled water. We have quite a bit of calcium in our tap water and have not found it to be a problem with this humidifier. Hope this helps.
1785573
You should use a water separator with all air tools. It will only help prolong life
1867200
I am new to water cooling but growing up I have seen fish tanks turn green within a few days, so distilled water has very little to worry about with regards to contaminants so I would venture to say this coil will last forever. You will know if there is a problem because the water circulates the loop several times a minute so any issues will show quick. When you design your loop just make sure you can see a portion of it so that you can monitor the loop without any effort. The simplest way is to run a piece of clear tubing outside the case to allow for a quick visual of the water. When it changes, for what ever reason, that clear part will cloud up fast. I hope this helps... I am new to water cooling but growing up I have seen fish tanks turn green within a few days, so distilled water has very little to worry about with regards to contaminants so I would venture to say this coil will last forever. You will know if there is a problem because the water circulates the loop several times a minute so any issues will show quick. When you design your loop just make sure you can see a portion of it so that you can monitor the loop without any effort. The simplest way is to run a piece of clear tubing outside the case to allow for a quick visual of the water. When it... » Read More I am new to water cooling but growing up I have seen fish tanks turn green within a few days, so distilled water has very little to worry about with regards to contaminants so I would venture to say this coil will last forever. You will know if there is a problem because the water circulates the loop several times a minute so any issues will show quick. When you design your loop just make sure you can see a portion of it so that you can monitor the loop without any effort. The simplest way is to run a piece of clear tubing outside the case to allow for a quick visual of the water. When it changes, for what ever reason, that clear part will cloud up fast. I hope this helps... « Show Less
1664189
I don't know about the hard water issue. I had to return the filter that I purchased. I could not stop the unit from leaking around the top. VERY disappointed.
862933
Sorry, I don't know. But I use distilled water in mine, so if you can switch to distilled water, that should help.
45315
My understanding is if you want it to work for a long time, then use nothing but distilled water.
522897
You can add full strength but you should mix it about 50/50 with distilled water (otherwise you're just throwing away money). Also it doesn't have to be exactly 50/50 depending on where you live. I live in southwest TX and I mixed around 60% water/40% coolant. The coolant is more for the cold temps. So you might be able to get away with just distilled water
885099
I use distilled water in my irons. I have hard water and have to use a water softener, so it is just less hassle to use the distilled water.
1103701
Don't over fill it and use only distilled water. One cup of 50/50 vinegar and water solution will get rid of any hard water buildup if you've been using tap water but do this at your own risk. If you do clean the tank inside with the solution, the safest way is to make sure the unit is cool and unplugged. Rinse it well before use.
1652921
The instructions do not say you have to use distilled water, relying on their filter to keep out mineral build up, but clearly using distilled water would work better and you do not have to replace the filter at some point.
2176708
They do suggest distilled water, but I have been using regular water and I have no problems. I have 8 humidifiers (3 different types that all use a sponge) and I have used regular tap water for a few years. The only potential problem that I can see would be if the tap water has a high mineral content.
1753117
I've been using tap water. It comes with about 10 packets of "lime and scale remover," which makes me think it would be better to use distilled water...but if you don't, you can use these packets to clean the water tank. Hope that helps...
463316
I don't use distilled water and it makes clear ice okay. I think distilled water tends to be rather tasteless (even for water.) Perhaps in the very long run distilled water would result in a longer life (less mineral deposits) but I haven't noticed any so far, but I'm only about 3 months into using it. Neither choice affect the clarity of the ice.
2086878
It really depends on how hard your tap water is. I have naturally soft water at our house so the unit is fine. If you are really concerned even with soft water or need to use a water softener for your house then use distilled water.