need help setting up a calcium reactor

[xmenx2dad]

I have a calcium reactor for my new tank but have not set it up yet. I understand the basic premise but wanted someone to help me make sure it is setup correctly before i turn it on. It is a lifereef calcium reactor, with water supplied via a manifold on the return line. Have a C02 cylinder powering it and controlled by a ph probe and a Milwaukee ph controller. thanks :bounce3::bounce2:

 

[kracer1025]

Just start with a slow steady drip rate and bubble rate. I have found that setting your drip rate a bit faster and just adjusting the bubble rate makes adjustment a bit more stable and simpler.

 

[xmenx2dad]

ok so i just figured out that running a supply line off of my return line will not work. does anyone have a small powerhead lying around that i can use as a feed pump? i have a mag 7 but think thats a bit much for a calcium reactor. Also does anyone have any experience setting up a ph controller in conjunction with a calcium reactor? thanks

 

[kracer1025]

You can use your return just install a small valve to restrict the flow going to your calcium reactor.

 

[xmenx2dad]

i have a manifold off of my return with a valve, problem is it seems like not enough flow?

You can use your return just install a small valve to restrict the flow going to your calcium reactor.

 

[kracer1025]

You should not need very much flow at all going through the reactor. I have used something as small as a Tom aqua lifter pump to feed my reactor.

 

[djsmallz]

As for the controller, I set mine at 6.6 that way the unit turns off the co2. Of course this is depending on what brand of media you're using. Side note I recently added my controller same as yours and couldn't be happier although it is coupled with an aquarium plants regulator

 

[xmenx2dad]

so do u plug the co2 solenoid into the controller or does the probe do all the work?

As for the controller, I set mine at 6.6 that way the unit turns off the co2. Of course this is depending on what brand of media you're using. Side note I recently added my controller same as yours and couldn't be happier although it is coupled with an aquarium plants regulator

 

[kracer1025]

You need to plug the regulator into the controller.

 

[xmenx2dad]

ok so the controller has 2 plugs and one ofthose u can plug another plug into. So the solenoid for the co2 tank into the controller and then another seperate plug for the circulating pump?

 

[kracer1025]

I would not plug the circulation pump into the controller. I usually just plug the c02 solenoid into the controller. I am using mine off my apex though so it may be slightly different.