AquaticLife Smart Buddie 200 GPD — RO/DI Booster Pump Auto-Flush Check Valve

The AquaticLife Smart Buddie 200 GPD booster pump increases the water pressure feeding your reverse osmosis system to maximize production, reduce waste water and extend membrane life. Designed for homes with low water pressure, or to get the most out of a high-capacity RO/DI setup.

Official AquaticLife Installation Video

The following installation video is from the official AquaticLife YouTube channel and shows how to connect the Smart Buddie booster pump to a Classic RO/DI unit. The same principles apply to the 200 GPD model.

Compatibility (AquaticLife recommendation)

The Smart Buddie 200 GPD (Item 660730) is designed for RO and RO/DI units with a total membrane capacity of 180-200 GPD, including:

• Aquatic Life Classic 200 GPD RO/DI
• APEC 180-200 GPD
• GrowoniX 200 GPD
• Bulk Reef Supply 200 GPD

Important: AquaticLife states that the warranty is void if the pump is connected to a system whose total membrane capacity is not 180-200 GPD. For a 50-100 GPD RO system, use the Smart Buddie 100 GPD (Item 660718). For a 150 GPD system, use the 150 GPD model (Item 660719).

Smart Operation

• Automatic membrane flush: the pump flushes the membrane for 45-60 seconds every hour and each time it is powered on, extending membrane life.
• 4 LED indicators on top of the unit: LACK (no water supply), FLUSH (flushing in progress), FULL (tank full) and FILTER (active filtration). Color-coded for quick status check.
• Low-pressure cutoff: if source pressure drops between 4.35 and 7.25 psi, the pump automatically cuts power to protect itself. The LACK indicator lights up.
• Internal check valve (now included): prevents backflow toward the source.

Technical Details

• Type: complete electric booster pump with built-in controls.
• Waste water reduction: up to 65% per AquaticLife.
• Target boosted pressure: ~80 psi or higher for optimal output (manufacturer).
• Connections: Buddie Fit press-fittings 1/4 in. quick-connect.
• Included: 6 low-profile 90-degree elbows, blue/yellow/red polyethylene tubing, power transformer.
• Testing: each unit is water-tested at the factory prior to packaging. A small amount of residual water may be inside the unit upon arrival.

Benefits for a Reef Aquarist

• Significant water savings on every reef salt water change.
• Higher membrane TDS rejection rate, so DI resin lasts longer.
• Faster production: ideal for large reef tanks that need frequent water changes.
• Longer RO membrane life thanks to the automatic flush.

Installation

The pump connects after the pre-filters (sediment and carbon) and before the RO membrane. The 6 Buddie Fit ports allow you to insert the pump into the circuit with minimal plumbing. Watch the installation video above for a step-by-step walkthrough, and refer to the AquaticLife manual included with the unit.

Why Buy AquaticLife at ReefSolution

ReefSolution is a marine aquarium specialty store based in Laval, Quebec, shipping across Canada. To complete your setup:

• AquaticLife RO Pressure Gauge 1-150 psi - verify pressure after boosting.
• AquaticLife Twist-In RO Membrane 100 GPD - combine two 100 GPD membranes to reach the 200 GPD compatible with this pump.
• AquaticLife Classic 100 GPD 4-Stage RO/DI - the reference AquaticLife RO/DI system.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is an AquaticLife booster pump useful?

An RO system produces its rated flow at about 65 psi inlet pressure. Below 45 psi, production drops and water quality may be compromised. A booster pump brings pressure up to about 80 psi or higher, restoring or increasing production and TDS rejection rate.

Does the Smart Buddie 200 GPD work with a 100 GPD RO system?

No. AquaticLife states that the warranty is void if the pump is connected to a system whose total membrane capacity is not 180-200 GPD. For a 100 GPD RO system, use the Smart Buddie 100 GPD (Item 660718).

Do I need to remove the flow restrictor and auto-shutoff from my RO system before installation?

Yes. The Smart Buddie has its own built-in flow restrictor and auto-shutoff valve. Remove these components from the existing RO system before connecting the pump to avoid conflicts.

Does the booster pump also improve water quality (TDS)?

Yes. Optimal pressure improves the membrane's TDS rejection rate, so fewer contaminants pass through. As a result, the DI resin lasts longer.