MP10 Wet Sides

GoPitt88 · Sep 8, 2018

So I have a 55 gallon mixed reef tank, and have had two MP10'S for 2 years now. Since I started dosing 2 part, I've had to clean the wet sides every two weeks due to calcium buildup. If I don't, then they eventually stop spinning and fall to the sand bed. I soak them in vinegar for a couple hours and they're good as new, EXCEPT, when new, I noticed a clear grease covering the magnet. Wondering if I add silicone grease to the wet side after a cleaning, would I be able to go longer before the need to clean them? Just curious. Your feedback is welcome and appreciated [emoji16]

watdachuck · Sep 8, 2018

Definitely start checking your main system pumps as well. Sounds like too much calcium is being added causing precipitation on the pumps. I've had return pumps fail from similar situations in the past and it's not a pleasant surprise.

On the other question I would consult with EcoTech but I'd bet they would say do not add any lubricants to the wet side.

GoPitt88 · Sep 8, 2018

I use a Fluval 306 canister filter, and a HOB 70. When dosing, I have it drip into the top of the HOB exit. I dose 95ml of each, calcium and Alk per day. I use the BRS 2 part mixes. If I lower the amount, then my Alk and Calcium drop. I measure about 8.5 alk and 420 CA every morning. I just added a 2.5" Squamosa clam a week ago, so I'm sure my dosing volumes will start to go up.

GoPitt88 · Sep 8, 2018

Hmmm....I just thought of something. I've been using an Aqua UV sterilizer ever since my tank crashed 3 years ago from Ich when I first setup my tank. I was a newbie and overstocked, and much too quickly. Anyway, I went Fallow for 8 weeks, then slowly restocked my tank. My LFS recommended this 8 watt UV sterilizer. I'm thinking it's really not doing much other than causing calcium precipitation on the quartz sleeve. If I go 6 months without cleaning it, there is a thick coating of calcium on it. Maybe I should turn it off. Maybe my dosing requirement would drop and my wet sides would stay cleaner. Hmmm.......