What CA reactor? - Page 2

Otty · 07-28-2007, 09:28 PM

If you are not experience in running a Kalk reactor you could kill everyting in your tank quick. They are nice but are really for the experienced reefers, just my opinion...

I will take you about 2 to 3 weeks to dial in a Ca reactor. I have a PH controller set to cut off at 6.5 ph and I run it at about 2 bubbles per second. I run the effluient at a small steady stream and it is keeping my tank at about 435 ppm on Calcium. I run a KNOP C and I have yet to put media back in it since I started it in April. I run a 5 lb CO2 tank and that should last about 6 months. Once you set one of these guys up you will realize how simple they really are and be greatful you spent the money.

IBMGeek · 07-28-2007, 10:19 PM

Otty how has the premium aquatics controller worked for you. I think im going to get the knop c withe the same controller as you pending your review.It looks like a good unit. Ive already spent enough money on the tank so a little bit more now is worth it considering im trying to make this tank as automated as possible.

IBMGeek · 07-29-2007, 11:59 AM

Flesh thanks for all the help but that cr2 looks kind of big, plus my tank is only 90 gallons so i dont need that big of a unit.

Thanks

Tangster · 07-29-2007, 12:48 PM

All you'd need is the Knop reactor the small one its a great time tested and simple as pie to set up and run and one of the most efficient units have ever used.. The Milwaukee's controllers are great units also about 80.00 if you look around. The Precision Marine reactors are also great units.. But the KNOP offers the largest Bang for the buck , simplicity design

IBMGeek · 07-29-2007, 01:51 PM

Ill look into the Milwaukee's controllers but i like the fact that the premium aquatics one you can connect to computer and check things out online. But ill think about it because that 80 dollar price range seems nice compared to $300+$99 for probes, but i guess its going to be a one time purchase anyway so its not that bad. Ive spent more on the wood to make my stand than ill spend in the controller (dam mahogany so expensive)

Thanks

fletch · 07-29-2007, 02:24 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by IBMGeek

Flesh tanks for all the help but that cr2 looks kind of big, plus my tank is only 90 gallons so i dont need that big of a unit.

Thanks

No problem I just figured I would give you an alternative to the knob reactor MRC also make smaller reactors, The cr-2 is just the one I am using. Good luck and I know that after you get your reactor all set up and tuned in you will be glad you made the investment. John

IBMGeek · 07-29-2007, 04:56 PM

Do you think i need the orp probe or should i just get the ph probe?

fletch · 07-29-2007, 06:24 PM

An ORP probe is for use with Ozone

Otty · 07-29-2007, 07:08 PM

That Lighthouse controller I got is great for the price. You can change things online and will will control either your CO2 valve or a ozone but not both. If you have priced some of the others it is about half the price of the fancy ones. I love it, especiall all the graphs it give you. I'll PM you an address to look at so you can check out the graphs.

IBMGeek · 07-29-2007, 10:18 PM

I was weighing in all my options and comparing the different controllers and am starting to like the $80-$100 price range for the Milwaukee controllers. The premium aquatics lighthouse controller looks awesome but i was considering all the features and don't think i need them all. The PA controller does everything even let you monitor things online which is a nice feature but for now im going to keep it simple and see if i get the knop c reactor with the Milwaukee ph/co2 controller and save about $300 at the same time.

Ohh and was looking at the milwaukee regulator as well,good or bad? Heres a link
CO2 Regulator w/Solenoid Diaphragm Valve & Bubble counter - AquaCave

Now i need to decide on what media to get for the reactor, any recommendations?

Thanks alot everybody for their help and time in helping me out.