Best way to add trace elements?

[marlinmero]

Before I go and spend 400 on a new calcium reactor I wanted to check with you guys and see what the best way to add calcium, mag, and all and all that good stuff is?
2 part? With a doser?

 

[gbru316]

DIY 2 part + doser gets my vote.

 

[marlinmero]

Because it's easier and less expensive? Or does it work better? Without all the sulphate?

 

[Eurobeaner]

cheaper and easier to 2-part unless you have a large tank (150+)

 

[marlinmero]

I have a 210 with about 50 gallons in the sump

 

[degibson84]

I have about 250 total gallons and I have no issues reenishing with frequent water changes.

 

[mcgyvr]

And how are you doing it now?
How much and what are you adding now?

 

[marlinmero]

I have a old calcium reactor that's about to die

 

[SGT_York]

It completely depends on your calcium requirements. A FOWLR tank has no need for a reactor, the payback period for a calcium reactor in an SPS dominant tank is within a few months by comparison to reef grade two part. homemade it's a few years.

If you plan on SPS/LPS dominant tank get the reactor. Which can also be mixed with a kalk reactor.

Get your numbers on how much calcium your reactor is producing each day and do the math to figure out which way is the most beneficial long term economic decision.

 

[marlinmero]

Ok thanks, I have no idea how much it puts out a day. But I have a reef tank with mostly lps but want to get more sps

 

[SGT_York]

get a measuring cup and see how long it takes to fill up, then measure the calcium level of the effluent. That will give you a good estimate. Using the time you can calculate how many cups a day. Subtract the tank numbers from the effluent output and you can calculate how much calcium you have been adding each day.

That information will be great for your long term care and you will need it if you decide to switch to two part anyway.