Calcium Reactor

[jhendu]

So after bringing home the new additions the other day my wife, Deb, and I had a little discussion about our calcium levels. After the discussion she green-lighted purchasing a reactor. So I've finally made up my mind that I am going to get one but figured that I would ask here to see what people have. Right now I'm leaning heavily on a Korallin 3002 that claims to be good up to 800 gallons. It may sound bigger than I need but I figure that it's only about $74 more than the smaller version and I wouldn't have to upgrade it down the road when we get a bigger tank. I know that I'll be using a pinpoint PH controller to run it. So what do you folks have to say? You know that I respect your opinoins (most of you at least).

 

[cerreta]

I had a Korralin reactor and it was too finicky to dial in. These are also expensive for what you get.

I had a PM reactor that was built well and sells for a fair price. Matt has a big GEO reactor and it too is a very good deal.

Make sure you purchase a good regulator otherwise the system will be finicky.

Matt had troubles with one brand and recently changed and he is very happy. I monitored his tank while he was in SF and the CO2 bubble rate and effulent drip rate never fluctuated.

When you are ready, the Chem Calculator link at the bottom of the Aqaurium Observations page also shows you how to dial in a calcium reactor.

 

[jhendu]

So what brand did you have probs with Matt and where did you get your GEO?

As far as regulators go...?????

http://www.marinedepot.com/ps_ViewItem~idProduct~CO3111.html

http://www.aquacave.com/detail.aspx?ID=1189

Also I forgot to mention that ideally the reactor would fit into a 8 1/2" wide space behind the tank.

 

[cerreta]

Check out this link. You get more for your money with the GEO 612 reactor.

When comparing reactors (same holds true for skimmers) don't trust manufacturer recommendations for rated tanks. Compare body size. For example, the GEO 618 has a 6" diamater chamber by 24" total height Area = 339 . The Korralin you are looking at is 4.5" diamter by 29" total height. Area = 325. The GEO is functionally larger and costs less.

 

[cerreta]

Premium Aquatics sells the 618 for $380. Vince has them listed on his website for $350. This is the cheapest price I have found.

http://www.aquaticodyssey.com/CaReactor.html

 

[jhendu]

It's late and I am a little blind but I don't see a link Scott. BTW that Scoly seems to be adapting very well to his new home. We really do love it. Now my wife wants a pink one too though!

 

[jhendu]

Oh, I've never been good with patience

 

[jhendu]

What about that regulator that he has listed for $145. Worth its salt?

 

[cerreta]

Don't know. Find out wha Matt is using, it seems to work well and costs aout that fee.

 

[cerreta]

Glad to hear the Scolymia is doing well.

 

[adamsky27]

I love scoly's! I've had mine forever it seems! I am so tempted to find a nice saw and cut it though... I think I'll test it on my orange plate coral first...

 

[cerreta]

Adam you're a "frickin frager" Let me know if that works. I broke a piece of Platy for the frag swap and it did not break well. I thought it may die, but all looks good so far as it begins to heal.
Cheers

 

[Tucson Reef]

Rubber band it first to recede tissue

 

[McCrary]

I use a regulator made for planted aquariums and it is very good.

http://www.aquariumplants.com/AQUARIUMPLANTS_com_s_Co2_Regulator_The_BEST_p/co2-1.htm

I have used others and they don't hold a candle to this one.

I would also choose another reactor other than the Korallin. John (scubabum1983) has my old one and they are very good with CO2 use and are very good once set, but they can be a huge pain to set. The GEO I use is top notch and I doubt you could find a better product without paying much more. The GEO 618 would be good for you Jason.

 

[jhendu]

I ordered the 618, the RF regulator and the pinpoint controller from Vince today. I've gotta go and pick up a CO2 tank this week and then find one of you guys to set it all up for me.

 

[SahuaritaMike]

I should be able to get you a tank for next to nothing from my suppliers. I will let you know in a a day or so. Whats your clearance under the tank?

Michael

 

[jhendu]

Sweet MIke. LMK. Do you still think I can get that trap from you? That coral beauty is making me quite angry.

 

[jhendu]

Oh yeah, no room underneath. It will go behind as long as it is not bigger than 8.5" in diameter. On the side if it is.

 

[McCrary]

Sweet dude, I should be able to help you if you need it. I am starting school on wednesday and I will still be adjusting so just PM me when you get the stuff and we should be able to find a good time.