Setting up a calcium reactor

[Breakthecycle2]

Some people use aqualifters,some use dosing/peristaltic pumps or just any small pump/powerhead. I use a small Rio 600(10 watts I think) on one system and a small minijet on another. It just needs to be big enough to constantly feed the reactor.

Can you post a pic of your setup?

 

[Breakthecycle2]

Also which check valve? http://www.marinedepot.com/CO2_Accessories-FICOCA-ct.html

 

[NCreefguy]

Can you post a pic of your setup?

You won't be able to tell much from my clutter but I'll snap a pic.

 

[NCreefguy]

Also which check valve? http://www.marinedepot.com/CO2_Accessories-FICOCA-ct.html

I use this one..... http://www.bulkreefsupply.com/mur-lok-inline-check-valve-1-4-x-1-4-push-connect.html


...and the one that comes with the Carbondoser regulator.

 

[Breakthecycle2]

I use this one..... http://www.bulkreefsupply.com/mur-lok-inline-check-valve-1-4-x-1-4-push-connect.html


...and the one that comes with the Carbondoser regulator.

I just saw that one. I'll go with that.

 

[NCreefguy]

I've got this one as well..... http://www.aquariumplants.com/THE-BEST-Check-Valve-medical-grade-p/cs-3482.htm

 

[Breakthecycle2]

I've got this one as well..... http://www.aquariumplants.com/THE-BEST-Check-Valve-medical-grade-p/cs-3482.htm

You use two?

 

[NCreefguy]

You use two?

I've got more than one setup.

 

[NCreefguy]

Cluttered pic but you can see my check valve

 

[hybridazn]

I'll try to make a video of my setup later tonight when I get home.

 

[Breakthecycle2]

I'll try to make a video of my setup later tonight when I get home.

Would appreciate it.

 

[hybridazn]

Here is a quick video I made. Excuse the sloppy sump, I've been neglecting it lately

The quiet one pump in the beginning of the video is my feed pump (317gph)

 

[Breakthecycle2]

Hey guys. I have a few question about a calcium reactor I'm trying to set up. How much media do I need? Do I fill it up close to the top? If so, I cant seem to turn the lid so I can lock it into place. Probably a stupid but should there be water in the bubble counter because mine isn't filling. Also, about how pressure of CO2 should the meter read? Sorry, but I'm s complete noob with this one.

 

[hybridazn]

Depending on which reactor you have Add media up to the bottom of the sticker on the reactor. Also you can add rodi water to the bubble counter, it will evaporate after a few weeks but you can simply add it again. There is also a gel you can use in place of the water.

 

[Breakthecycle2]

Depending on which reactor you have Add media up to the bottom of the sticker on the reactor. Also you can add rodi water to the bubble counter, it will evaporate after a few weeks but you can simply add it again. There is also a gel you can use in place of the water.

Is there a trick getting the top to twist so you can turn the locking knobs? With the media in it, I cannot get it turn. Also, what should the pressure gauge on the CO2 tank read?

 

[hybridazn]

Is there a trick getting the top to twist so you can turn the locking knobs? With the media in it, I cannot get it turn. Also, what should the pressure gauge on the CO2 tank read?

Did you buy a used one? Sometimes if ppl store them for a while with the lod locked on the rubber ring will seize the lid. The only thing I can suggest is to remove all the locking screws and gently try to pry the lid off. Just be careful I've seen people snap the lids because they are on so tight.

The gauge on the right should be on the 30

 

[Breakthecycle2]

Did you buy a used one? Sometimes if ppl store them for a while with the lod locked on the rubber ring will seize the lid. The only thing I can suggest is to remove all the locking screws and gently try to pry the lid off. Just be careful I've seen people snap the lids because they are on so tight.

The gauge on the right should be on the 30

No its brand new. Maybe I wasn't being clear. So I filled the reactor with media...reborn and remag. I put the cover back on, but now it won't turn so I can "lock" it down.

So in the pic (not actual reactor), I am trying to turn it toward the "skinnier" holes.

 

[Breakthecycle2]

Couple of questions. I got it up and running a few days. Steady slow drip, 3-4 bubbles per second. My issue now is, my ALK went from 9.2 to 8.2 and my calcium is around 520. Its usually 450. How do I get it lowered? Less bubbles and drip?

 

[VegasUSP]

Here is a quick video I made. Excuse the sloppy sump, I've been neglecting it lately

The quiet one pump in the beginning of the video is my feed pump (317gph)

How do you like the Geo RX? I'm looking at getting one for my 120g. Also what is that second smaller chamber that was in the sump, is that just for extra media....sorry for the questions I'm a noob when it comes to CaRx. Thanks!

 

[hybridazn]

I love my Geo's Reef CaRX. It's built like a tank haha

The other reactor inside the sump is a Geo's Reef bio pellet reactor that is currently empty but still online since it also feeds my external skimmer.