Anyone in the area have a reef keeper?

[xmike24]

I'm not really looking to start another endless forum thread of (brand) vs (brand) for reef keepers. I'm more interested in seeing who has what and if they minded I come check them out. I kind of want to see the differences first hand.

 

[EllieSuz]

I use the ReefKeeper Lite and have for several years. I use it to time the actinic and daytime lights, the fan in the hood, the 'fuge light, two fans in the summer, suspend the powerheads while feeding, operate two heaters, the return pump and the phosban reactor. Those last two aren't on timers, of course, but I can use the controller to turn them on and off when needed. I don't have the internet hook-up, but that capability would be nice, I'm sure. I don't have a problem with your stopping by to have a look and my neighbor uses the Elite model and I can ask him whether he'd mind sharing too. PM me for directions and schedule.

 

[BuffaloReef]

I just got the Elite but haven't set it up. I was surprised how flimsy some of the parts feel. For example you can see through some of the modules since they're not sealed. It seems strange that the parts you would connect temp and ph probes to, which have to be submerged, wouldn't be more water tight. I have also heard that if the equipment is too close to a metal hailed ballast interference can give you inaccurate readings. I went with a Reefkeeper since they have a great reputation so these issues must not be that bad.

 

[BuffaloReef]

I should mention that the manual for my Elite says it can handle 63 modules and 100' of total bus cable length. The Lite can only handle 4 modules but that's plenty for most people. I don't know about bus cable though. 100' isn't a huge amount especially considering I'll need about 25' just to connect the system to my mixing station in the basement. I don't know if that's a hard rule or a suggestion by the manufacturer. I was going to be starting another thread about the Reefkeeper here and in the Lighting and Filtration Forum to find out that and a few other things.

 

[xmike24]

I just got the Elite but haven't set it up. I was surprised how flimsy some of the parts feel. For example you can see through some of the modules since they're not sealed. It seems strange that the parts you would connect temp and ph probes to, which have to be submerged, wouldn't be more water tight. I have also heard that if the equipment is too close to a metal hailed ballast interference can give you inaccurate readings. I went with a Reefkeeper since they have a great reputation so these issues must not be that bad.

Damn, wish you were closer so I could help you set it up / see how I feel during the process. Bummer.

I use the ReefKeeper Lite and have for several years... I don't have a problem with your stopping by to have a look and my neighbor uses the Elite model and I can ask him whether he'd mind sharing too. PM me for directions and schedule.

That would be awesome thanks. PM Sent!

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Anyone else in the area have Reefkeeper or Neptune Apex?