DIY Phosphate Reactor Question

[MSUschmidt]

I have a question regarding making a Phosphate reactor. I have an old Skimmer. Here is a link to see what It looks likes.

http://www.ebay.com/itm/CPR-SR9-Pro...799?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item4ace080457

First Question.....Does the Phosphate Reactor have to be completely sealed? I know the water needs to run down and UP to make the GFO bounce around, but does it have to be completely sealed for any reason?

This old Skimmer has an Inlet that comes down and then hits the bottom of the skimmer cup and then comes up. If I cut a piece of acrylic and drilled a ton of holes in it, set it down at the bottom to put the Media on it, and then let the excess run out of the Outlet, would this work?

I could also flip the way it runs and use the ball valve as a flow control, and then make some type of outlet for the water, would I HAVE to make the Top water tight or not?

 

[MSUschmidt]

Heck, since I have it in a large sump.....couldnt I just take the top off and let it slowly trickle back down into my sump?

 

[mcgyvr]

The whole point of a reactor is just to push water through the media vs just letting it sit in the corner of your sump in a bag..
As long as you are accomplishing that... then a reactor you have

 

[MSUschmidt]

Perfect.....thanks. Simple enough

 

[mcgyvr]

You just don't want the GFO to get out or the thing leak water on your floor
but yes.. simple enough

 

[kevantheman35]

nice

 

[ixtcxi]

I would love to try that