A standalone deionized water system is basically a tank full of resin beads. Those beads grab dissolved solids like a toddler grabs candy. It’s simple, it’s effective, and it’s fast at first.
But here’s the kicker: those beads eventually get full. Like, burping-at-the-buffet full. You have to replace them or regenerate them with acid and caustic chemicals. Not exactly a weekend hobby.
If you’re feeding it tap water that’s already high in minerals, you’ll be swapping resin cartridges every time you blink. Your wallet will weep. Your patience? Gone.
