Misting systems... Is RO really necessary?

Hey guys,
I am considering investing in an auto misting system for my geckos and the new chameleon I am getting. The one thing that has kept me from doing this before, is that everything I've read says that RO or similar water is a must or the system will clog up and die on you. I know that with warm mist humidifiers, you can run a vinegar / water cycle on them to help clear / prevent clogs every so often. Is there a similar work-around with auto misting systems or is it a given that they will quit working on tap water?

Also, if that is the case, how long would this take to happen?

I'd appreciate any thoughts on this as this is my first time purchasing something of this nature and it's a hefty chunk of change to invest, etc.

Thank you for your time and help!

I think the answer depends on how hard your water is. My municipal tap water is so hard (lime/calcium) that Fred Flintstone and Barney Rubble would love the stuff and that's even after it's been processed by the softener.

I'm in the same boat as bcr229 - really hard water (African Rift Lake on-tap!), using tap water in a misting system would probably result in clogs within days. Distilled for the win.


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You may be able to run a vinegar solution through your mister/humidifier but if you truly have hard water you will end up with calcification throughout the enclosure (anywhere the mist goes).