Is it possible to run a Ca reactor from your overflow?

[FloridaFishMan]

Hi,
I am trying to design an efficient tank. I am trying to see if it is not only possible but works well at supplying Ca, and alk to the tank. I see Ca reactors that are run on mag 3's or 5's. Just want to know if anyone out there has done it and has it working.

I see a few problems with this type of set-up so I just wanted to see what you all have seen on this matter.
Chris

 

[MarksReef]

Do you mean feed the reactors input ? I feed mine from the return. No pump.

 

[EdMiller]

The pump on a calcium reactor cirrculates the water within the reactor chambers, not to and from the tank. The actual supply from and back to the tank is very minimal. I have my supply fed by a JG fitting tapped into the sump return plumbing. The recirculation pump is an Eheim 1048. The reactor needs the cirrculation pump to keep the water moving to mix the CO2 and dissolve the media.

 

[FloridaFishMan]

Marksreef,
Yes, that's what I mean. Can you show me a photo of how you set it up and give me a description please?

Ed,
Are you saying that the reactor does need a seperate pump just for circulation?
Chris

 

[MarksReef]

It is just a tee and reduced off of the return line. Here is a pic.
And yes, the reactor does need a seperate pump just for circulation inside the reactor.

 

[MarkS]

You can feed it from your return pump, but not your overflow. There needs to be some pressure on the water entering the reactor.

 

[FloridaFishMan]

Ohh now I see. I am still trying to understand how all this stuff works. So there is a pump soley for the purpose of circulating CO2 through the media and a pump or a tee to deliver small doses to the aquarium.

What kind of GPH does the re-circulation need to be in order achieve optimal operation?
Thanks,
Chris

 

[MarksReef]

Different styles use different pumps w/ different G.P.G. Mine (LifeReef) uses a Mag 5 (500 G.P.H.)