(kalk Stirrer) Avast K2 vs ReefOctopus KS100

DogueDeBordeaux · Apr 29, 2012

I am looking for a good kalk stirrer (no powerheads). Which would be better, and easier to maintain? I plan to use a litermeter for topoff.
The avast runs 24/7, while the KS100 runs every 2hrs for 15mins.
Could the avast not having a sealed top be a problem?

Super Reef Octopus Kalk Stirrer/Nilsen Reactor | CoralVue
http://www.avastmarine.com/ssc/do/pr...2-Kalk-Stirrer

milkman · Apr 29, 2012

I have the AVAST unit and it works great. Not sure wat your concern is over the top as there is no pressure on the lid. It just sits in a groove on the lid.

I stopped using it recently because I thought the increased frequency that I had to clean the pumps was not worth the benefits. I just increased my two part dosing volumes.

blackx-runner · Apr 29, 2012

They are very similar designs. Both stirred with a motor and gravity feed back to the sump. One note however is that the Reef Octopus itself does not cycle the motor, it needs to be plugged into a controller/timer that is set to run 15 mins every 2 hour. Since it states to not run the pump 24/7 it means its not built for continuous duty.
Being the avast marine says it stirs 24/7 I would guess they have a better motor in the unit that is meant for continuous duty cycle, at least I would hope so. You could probably also set this up to cycle on and off.
Personally I would go for the cheaper and DIY route with the Avast you build K1 or K2 depending on system size. I am planning on getting one when my 2 part is closer to being gone.

redtop03 · Apr 29, 2012

I don't know anything about the CoralVue stirrer,I'm sure it is a fine stirrer,at least it looks great....

I know the Avast K2 is an excellent stirrer,it does have the continuous duty motor and can be used with a timer,which is how I use mine....

the lid just sitting on the K2 isn't a problem,although it isn't sealed or mounted in any way,it doesn't move while the motor is stirring,the motor turns at 1 RPM and gently mixes the kalk without causing the white out like the pump mixing reactors do,so it can be ran 24/7 if you want

DogueDeBordeaux · Apr 30, 2012

thanks for the replies. I will get the avast k2. I was thinking about the lid moving around when motor running. Not worried about it leaking,
but this is the only kalk reactor I have seen not sealed. I have never read any negative feedback on avast products though.