Video credit: nolimitreefersDIY. Original video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DORyIMl3Qa8. This is our own independent breakdown and is not affiliated with the video creator. As an Amazon Associate, Shrimpyo earns from qualifying purchases. Product prices shown in the video may have changed.
Watch the video
Product breakdown
- APEC Water RO system
- iSpring RO system
- Home Master RO system
- Salty Shrimp GH/KH+
- 5 stage RO system
This breakdown is our own summary of the video for reference. Confirm current specs and price on the retailer page before buying.
A 5 stage RO system plus remineralizer is the standard way shrimp keepers get stable, clean water for water changes. You strip tap water down to a blank slate, then you add shrimp specific minerals back before it ever touches your colony.
Watch the Video
Think of the embedded video as a setup in this class, not as an exact shopping list. It gives you a real world look at how a 5 stage style unit is put together, how the filters and membrane stage connect, and what living with that type of system feels like.
If you keep Neocaridina or Caridina, this category matters because tap water swings by season and by city. A setup in this class helps you start every water change from the same baseline, which is exactly what shy or breeding shrimp respond to.
What This Video Covers
This video from nolimitreefersDIY covers 5 stage RO system aquarium review, giving a real world look at a setup in this category. You see the general layout that keepers commonly report at this level, with sediment and carbon prefilters feeding a membrane, then a final polishing stage before storage.
For shrimp keeping, that layout suits both Neocaridina cherry types and more sensitive Caridina crystal types. Neocaridina will often live in tap, but breeders still like RO for control. Caridina and Taiwan Bee shrimp really prefer that low and stable starting point, then careful remineralizing to their preferred hardness.
Scale wise, this class fits the home shrimp room well. Keepers commonly report running small starter tanks around 10 gallons on these units, plus a couple of breeding tanks from one storage container. You make water in batches, store it in a clean food grade brute or jug, remineralize and aerate, then use it for changes.
One tradeoff at this level is waste water and space. Most under sink style RO units send some water to drain while they make pure water, so you need a drain connection or a bucket plan. You also need room for the unit plus a storage vessel, which can feel bulky in an apartment.
Another tradeoff is that RO or RODI output is essentially 0 GH, KH and TDS and must be remineralized before use. That blank water is great for control, but it is not shrimp safe straight from the unit. You have to add minerals back gradually and test before adding to the tank rather than assuming a fixed number of drops works for every unit.
If you want background on why that matters, read our how to choose RO water vs tap water for shrimp keeping and our how to choose remineralizer for neocaridina RO water. Those explain when tap is fine and when a blank slate approach saves you headaches in November and 2026.
Timestamp Breakdown
This is the core of the article. The video shows a setup in this class. Below is how that general approach maps to what we would buy today in 2026 for shrimp use. Use the table to match each job to a current pick, then read the notes for how we would actually run it.
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Quick Picks at a Glance
Prime Salty Shrimp Mineral GH/KH+ 200g
Home Master TMAFC-ERP Artesian Reverse Osmosis
Prime iSpring RCC7-BN 5-Stage Reverse Osmosis Under Sink
APEC ROES-50 5-Stage Under Sink Reverse Osmosis
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Pros
- Dissolves almost completely in seconds with no long waiting time before water changes
- Promotes vibrant color, active behavior, healthy molts and reliable breeding results
- Very economical, a 200g container treats a large volume of pure water
- Benefits the whole tank including plants and biological filtration
Cons
- Must be premixed outside the aquarium and measured carefully to avoid parameter swings
- Powder absorbs moisture quickly, container must be closed immediately after each use
- Formulated for neutral pH GH/KH species, not suitable for soft water Caridina that need very low KH
Salty Shrimp Mineral GH/KH+ 200g is a specialized remineralizing powder designed to prepare neutral aquarium water for shrimp keeping and breeding. It is ideal for hobbyists using RO, rainwater or fully desalinated water who keep Neocaridina, crayfish, snails and community fish.
Its standout feature is the balanced GH to KH ratio of 1.0 to 0.5, which creates stable neutral pH water that supports healthy molting, intense coloration and consistent breeding. In real world use it dissolves in seconds and delivers essential minerals and trace elements that also benefit plants and beneficial filter bacteria.
The product comes as a fine powder in a compact 200g container with an enclosed measuring spoon for accurate dosing. The powder mixes quickly outside the tank, and just 2 grams per 10 liters reliably reaches about 6 dGH and 300 microsiemens conductance.
The main drawbacks are that it requires careful measuring and premixing, as dosing directly in the tank can cause swings. The powder also absorbs moisture quickly so you must close the container immediately, and it is not intended for soft water Caridina species that require near zero KH.
Overall, Salty Shrimp Mineral GH/KH+ is one of the most trusted solutions for creating healthy, stable shrimp water from pure RO sources. If you want stronger colonies, better survival and vibrant shrimp in a neutral pH setup, this is an excellent, easy to use choice.
Brand: SALTYSHRIMP by Salty Shrimp, Model Number SSM-SM-200, Form: Fast dissolving mineral powder in 200g container with measuring spoon included.
Function: Remineralizes RO water, rainwater and fully desalinated water to approx. 6 dGH with a GH/KH ratio of 1.0/0.5. Standard dose is approx. 2g per 10 liters for about 300 microsiemens conductance.
Best For: Neutral pH shrimp, crayfish, snails, fish, planted tanks and biofilter support. Target species includes shrimp with compact package dimensions for easy storage.
Always mix the powder outside the aquarium in a separate container of RO, distilled or rainwater. Add an evenly full measuring spoon of approx. 2g per 10 liters, stir until dissolved, then add the prepared water to your tank.
Make sure any tiny undissolved particles also go into the water, as they contain valuable minerals. Test GH and adjust the dose slightly to reach your target hardness and conductivity.
Close the container tightly right after every use to protect the moisture sensitive powder. Use regularly for water changes to keep parameters stable for breeding and molting.
Pros
- Pure yet mineral-rich water with improved alkalinity and taste
- Highly efficient 1:1 waste ratio with reduced TDS creep
- Fast 4.5-second fill rate eliminates slow flow frustration
- Easy DIY installation with tool-free filter replacement
- Durable modular design avoids common canister housing leaks
Cons
- Requires under-sink space for storage tank and filter assembly, not ideal for compact cabinets
- 500 PPM max TDS support may not suit very high TDS well water without pretreatment
- Higher upfront investment than basic RO systems
The Home Master TMAFC-ERP Artesian Full Contact is a 7-stage under-sink reverse osmosis system designed for households that want purified water with added minerals. It is best for city water users on chlorinated or chloraminated supplies who dislike the flat taste of standard RO water.
Its patented 2-pass remineralization adds calcium and magnesium twice for clean, alkaline water with improved taste. Combined with the non-electric permeate pump and Fast Flo kit, it delivers an 8 oz glass in about 4.5 seconds at a water-saving 1:1 waste ratio.
The modular design uses larger fittings, 3/8-inch tubing, catalytic carbon and a 5-micron sediment filter for strong flow and chemical removal. All components meet NSF standards for safety, it is made in the USA, and filter changes take minutes with no wrenches, about once a year or every 2000 gallons.
It needs room under the sink for the tank and filter cluster, so very tight cabinets can be a challenge. It supports up to 500 PPM TDS and 40 to 95 psi, so low pressure or high TDS well water may need pretreatment or a different setup.
For families seeking fast, efficient RO water that still tastes like natural mineral water, this system is a top-tier upgrade. Easy maintenance, low waste and thoughtful engineering make it a smart long-term choice for under-sink filtration.
Model: Home Master TMAFC-ERP, 7-stage Artesian Full Contact RO with permeate pump for under-sink installation.
Filtration: 5-micron sediment filter, 8.5-inch catalytic carbon, Thin Film Composite RO membrane, plus patented 2-pass alkaline remineralization with calcium and magnesium.
Performance: 1 GPM max flow, 4.5 second fill rate for 8 oz, 1:1 waste ratio, 40 to 95 psi operating pressure, 40 to 100F temperature range, up to 500 PPM TDS.
Dimensions and Care: 20L x 16W x 12H inches, 14.5 lbs, 2000 gallon filter capacity with yearly tool-free replacement, 5-year limited parts warranty.
Pros
- NSF/ANSI 58 certified performance trusted for over 15 years
- High contaminant removal including PFAS, lead, fluoride and chlorine
- No electricity required and fits under most kitchen sinks
- Premium brushed nickel lead-free faucet and food-grade components included
- Lifetime personalized support from USA
Cons
- Requires under-sink space for tank and filter housings, not ideal for very small cabinets
- Periodic filter and membrane replacements needed to maintain performance
- Produces wastewater as part of reverse osmosis process and has slower flow than tap water
The iSpring RCC7-BN is a 5-stage under-sink reverse osmosis drinking water system designed for families who want cleaner, better tasting water straight from the tap. It is a strong fit for city water and well water users concerned about lead, PFAS, fluoride, chlorine and high TDS.
In real world use, it removes up to 99 percent of over 1,000 contaminants and filters down to 0.0001 microns, with an 80 to 90 percent reduction in TDS. The result is crisp water for drinking plus clearer ice cubes, fresher coffee and tea, and better tasting cooking water.
Build quality centers on reliability and ease of ownership, with premium filter housings, food-grade tubing and a lead-free brushed nickel faucet. The transparent first-stage housing makes visual checks fast, while the check valve helps prevent backflow and the compact tank design fits under most sinks without power.
As with any RO system, you will need space for the tank and housings and routine filter changes to keep performance high. Flow is slower than an unfiltered tap and the system creates wastewater during filtration, which is normal for reverse osmosis.
Overall, the RCC7-BN is a proven, NSF/ANSI 58 certified choice for low maintenance, bottled-quality water at home. If you want a trusted under-sink RO system with easy installation and long term US-based support, it is an excellent pick.
Model: RCC7-BN by iSpring, 5-stage reverse osmosis with activated carbon and carbon block plus RO membrane.
Capacity: 75 GPD membrane with storage tank, 3.4 liters per minute max flow, supports up to 750 PPM TDS.
Installation: Under-sink, no power needed, 40 to 100 degrees F operating range, dimensions 23.62 x 15.75 x 11.81 inches.
Includes: Filter housings, filters, tubing and parts, lead-free brushed nickel faucet with top-mounted design, 1-year manufacturer warranty.
Pros
- Removes up to 99 percent of 1000 plus impurities including chlorine taste and odor
- High 50 GPD daily capacity with storage tank for dependable family use
- Complete all-in-one kit with faucet, tank and filters simplifies setup
- NSF Certified design with durable, long-life filters that last 6 to 24 months
Cons
- Bulky tank and filter assembly requires ample under-sink cabinet space
- Slow 0.03 GPM flow rate means filling large pots takes extra time
- Requires drain connection, 40 to 85 psi water pressure and periodic filter replacements
The APEC ROES-50 is a 5-stage under-sink reverse osmosis system designed for families and homeowners who want bottled quality water from their kitchen tap. It is best for households on municipal or well water with high TDS, chlorine taste, or concerns about lead, fluoride and heavy metals.
In real world use, it delivers up to 50 gallons per day of clean, great-tasting water while reducing up to 99 percent of over 1000 contaminants. The combined carbon plus RO membrane process effectively tackles arsenic, chlorine, fluoride, PFAS and microplastics for noticeably purer drinking and cooking water.
Design is practical and service focused, with a compact 15.5 inch filter assembly, pressurized storage tank and elegant brushed nickel faucet. Quick-connect fittings, color-coded tubing and US engineered components make installation and filter changes straightforward for most DIY users.
Drawbacks are typical for under-sink RO systems. You will need sufficient cabinet space for the tank, adequate 40 to 85 psi water pressure, and patience with the slow RO flow rate. Regular filter changes and a drain connection for wastewater are also required.
Overall, the ROES-50 remains a top tier choice for safe, great-tasting home water without ongoing bottled water hassle. If you want proven NSF certified filtration, easy maintenance and dependable daily capacity, it is an excellent long term investment.
Purification Method: 5-stage reverse osmosis with activated carbon, rated for up to 50 gallons per day. Reduces TDS up to 2000 PPM and up to 99 percent of 1000 plus impurities.
Installation and Operation: Under-sink installation with pressurized tank, brushed nickel faucet and quick-connect fittings. Requires 40 to 85 psi operating pressure and 40 to 100 F water temperature.
Dimensions and Build: Measures 15.5L x 5.25W x 17H inches with plastic housing. Includes RO system, storage tank, Filter-Max-ES50 filter set and owners manual. Filter life is 6 to 24 months based on water quality.
| Timestamp | Part | Common at this level | Our 2026 pick | Why |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| – | setup | a similar setup in this class | APEC Water RO system | A grounded, currently sold option in the ro system remineralize category. |
| – | gear | a similar setup in this class | iSpring RO system | A grounded, currently sold option in the ro system remineralize category. |
| – | gear | a similar setup in this class | Home Master RO system | A grounded, currently sold option in the ro system remineralize category. |
| – | gear | a similar setup in this class | Salty Shrimp GH/KH+ | A grounded, currently sold option in the ro system remineralize category. |
| – | gear | a similar setup in this class | 5 stage RO system | A grounded, currently sold option in the ro system remineralize category. |
The most important choice is the RO unit itself plus the remineralizer as a pair. The APEC Water ROES-50, 5-Stage Under Sink Reverse and the iSpring RCC7-BN NSF Certified both represent the simple 5 stage approach shown in a setup in this class. They focus on sediment, carbon and membrane filtration to give you that blank starting water for shrimp.
The Home Master TMAFC-ERP Artesian Full Contact takes a different path with its patented 2 pass alkaline remineralization and catalytic carbon stage. That added mineral step is built for drinking taste, so for shrimp you still want to test the output and use a shrimp specific mineral routine. I like its modular design and once a year or 2000 gallons filter change idea for busy rooms, but it is more system than a single betta style shrimp cube needs.
Do not skip the Salty Shrimp Mineral GH/KH+ 200g. It is designed to remineralize RO water, rainwater and fully desalinated water while raising hardness at a ratio of dGH to KH of 1.0 to 0.5. Always follow the manufacturer dosing chart for your specific product, dose gradually, and test the water after dosing before you do a water change.
My Experience
I run a Neocaridina cherry colony in a small tank that keepers commonly report as a 10 gallon starter size, plus a Caridina crystal tank beside it. When I switched both tanks to batch made RO water with shrimp minerals, berried females became more regular and molts looked cleaner. The key was mixing the night before and testing, not rushing.
A unit like the APEC Water ROES-50, 5-Stage Under Sink Reverse matches how I like to work. I make water into a lidded container, add Salty Shrimp Mineral GH/KH+ 200g a little at a time, circulate with an air stone, then test. That slow routine avoids the shock you get when you chase a recipe without measuring.
Comparison and Alternatives
Comparing the top two 5 stage style picks, the APEC Water ROES-50, 5-Stage Under Sink Reverse is known for 50 GPD output and long lasting large capacity filters that remove many common tap impurities. It includes a filter set, faucet, tank and install kit, and the brand notes filter changes every 6 to 24 months based on incoming water quality. That makes it a calm, set and forget choice for a shrimp shelf.
The iSpring RCC7-BN NSF Certified offers higher 75 GPD capacity in a 5 stage under sink layout with NSF ANSI 58 certification. It is listed to reduce TDS by 80 to 90 percent and filter down to 0.0001 microns, with a transparent first stage housing so you can see when prefilters load up. If your tap runs heavy or you make water for several tanks, that faster production and visual check are handy.
Con wise, both need under sink space, a cold water feed and a drain, plus regular prefilter swaps. They are not portable like a countertop distiller, and they are overkill if you only top off one tiny jar. You should NOT buy an under sink RO if you rent and cannot drill or adapt a faucet, or if your tap is already stable and your Neocaridina breed well.
For a tighter budget, start with the remineralizer and jugs of purchased RO or distilled water while you save. The Salty Shrimp Mineral GH/KH+ 200g lets you practice the mix and test routine on a small scale. You can learn more in our shrimp king remineralizer guide and our RO System + Remineralize archive before you commit to plumbing.
Three Ways to Set This Up
Pick the tier that matches your colony goals and your space. All three assume you remineralize every batch and test before it goes in the tank. Adapt quantity and container size to your own tank volume.
Budget Neocaridina Starter
Use the APEC Water RO system as your base, paired with Salty Shrimp GH/KH+ for minerals. This suits a first cherry shrimp tank where keepers commonly report using a 10 gallon setup and weekly small changes.
Who it suits: new keepers on city tap with swings, or anyone who wants simple batch water without extra features. Skip it if you cannot install under sink filtration.
Balanced Caridina Tank We Recommend
Use the iSpring RO system as your base, paired with Salty Shrimp Mineral GH/KH+ 200g and a TDS pen plus liquid GH and KH kit for checks. This is the balanced routine we recommend for Crystal Red or Crystal Black shrimp where stability matters most.
Who it suits: keepers running two to three shrimp tanks who want faster 75 GPD output and easy visual prefilter checks. See also our iSpring vs APEC for Crystal Red Shrimp comparison.
Higher End Taiwan Bee Room
Use the Home Master RO system as your base, still paired with Salty Shrimp GH/KH+ for shrimp specific tuning. The Home Master TMAFC-ERP Artesian Full Contact brings catalytic carbon for chloramines and chlorine, permeate pump efficiency and fast flow fittings.
Who it suits: dedicated breeders with multiple Taiwan Bee tanks who value low waste and long service intervals. It is not ideal if you want the simplest install or the smallest footprint.
FAQ
Do I need to remineralize 5 stage RO water for shrimp?
Yes. RO output is essentially blank and must be remineralized before use. Follow the manufacturer dosing chart for your Salty Shrimp product, add a little at a time, then test GH, KH and TDS in the mixing container before you add it to the tank.
Can I use a drinking RO system like Home Master or iSpring for shrimp tanks?
You can, but treat it as a pure water maker, not a finished shrimp water maker. Drinking systems may add minerals back for taste, so always test the output and then adjust with a shrimp specific remineralizer to reach the hardness your Neocaridina or Caridina need.
How should I store and use RO water for water changes?
Make water in batches into a clean, covered container with aeration. Remineralize gradually, test, then match temperature before changing. Keepers commonly report better results with small, regular changes rather than large swings, especially for Caridina.
Final Verdict
A setup in this class is about control, not magic. If your tap is inconsistent or you want to keep Caridina, a simple 5 stage unit plus careful remineralizing gives you repeatable water and calmer shrimp. If your Neocaridina already thrive and breed in tap, save your money and focus on feeding and cover.
Our pick: the Balanced Caridina Tank with the iSpring RO system and Salty Shrimp Mineral GH/KH+ 200g, for keepers who want steady batch water for crystal shrimp without moving to a large premium install.
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