I've been using a Knop S IV calcium reactor for my 300-gallon reef tank for about 15 years now but am wondering if there aren't better options available.
On the plus side, the integrated EHEIM pump is still chugging along and I like that it's quiet. I also like that it's rated for up to 600 gallons.
However, the unit fizzles out every so often and I don't typically notice until corals are shriveling - typically, either the CO2 isn't delivering or the feeder tube is clogged. And getting the CO2 bubble count right is always a hit-or-miss proposition - I don't know that the pH monitor and automatic valve setup has ever worked properly, which is to say that I've never seen the valve closed, even after the CO2 has overinflated the system.
Now, after a prolonged outage (and 15 years of more-or-less constant use), the media in the buffering chamber has turned dark and I see no way to replace it without physically breaking the plastic tube open and gluing it back together. [The unit came without a manual, so if there's a secret to opening 'er up, I'm clueless.] I'd order a replacement but can find no source for parts. Is the company even around anymore?
Does anyone know how I can fix 'er up?
Can anyone recommend a superior alternative - maybe something a bit more reliable?
Any advice is appreciated.
On the plus side, the integrated EHEIM pump is still chugging along and I like that it's quiet. I also like that it's rated for up to 600 gallons.
However, the unit fizzles out every so often and I don't typically notice until corals are shriveling - typically, either the CO2 isn't delivering or the feeder tube is clogged. And getting the CO2 bubble count right is always a hit-or-miss proposition - I don't know that the pH monitor and automatic valve setup has ever worked properly, which is to say that I've never seen the valve closed, even after the CO2 has overinflated the system.
Now, after a prolonged outage (and 15 years of more-or-less constant use), the media in the buffering chamber has turned dark and I see no way to replace it without physically breaking the plastic tube open and gluing it back together. [The unit came without a manual, so if there's a secret to opening 'er up, I'm clueless.] I'd order a replacement but can find no source for parts. Is the company even around anymore?
Does anyone know how I can fix 'er up?
Can anyone recommend a superior alternative - maybe something a bit more reliable?
Any advice is appreciated.
