When is it time to add a Calcium Reactor?

[Chris Spaulding]

I am getting a larger tank 180g 72x24x24 and eventually my fish and corals mostly SPS will move over to this new tank. I currently have a RedSea 250 55g. I will be adding a Calcium Reactor to this new tank. The question is when should I be adding it and when do I bring this on line? I do not see any of my SPS corals going into the new tank for about 5 too 6 months after the cycle.

 

[KStatefan]

When whatever your method for maintaining parameters does not keep up with demand.

 

[X-37B]

On my 120 I dosed 2 part for 6 months until enough coralline was present. I started with 50% live rock.
That way I had a good feeling for how much my alk useage was.
I will do the same on my next upgrade.

 

[sawdonkey]

You can go forever without one. My old build was a 210 packed with SPS and I only used Kalk through my ATO. But with this method, my alk fluctuated more than I liked.

On my current build, I got a calcium reactor when most of my frags became decent sized colonies. I just wanted more stability. I’m sure if I wanted, Kalk would still support my tank.
So, your answer is...whenever you want....or never.