reactor purchasing

[reef tank 2.0]

mixed gfo and carbon in the same canister???

 

[crabbydan]

So for those running one return pump with manifolds to split off flow to separate reactors where do you direct the return from your reactors? Another part of the sump I assume the return pump is the final chamber flow wise and if your set your reactor returns to that chamber will it impact the reactor process?

Also I do run the BRS deluxe single reactor. I put GFO in then higher up I put carbon squeezed between two foam filters. Never used little fishes so can't compare but love the ease of u. Screwing brs container clean refill and screw back on effortlessly.

 

[downbeach]

so is the reverse flow NECESSARY? I was thinking i only needed two (one for gfo and one for carbon)

Not neccessary, but a good idea. Ground up GAC(fines) are suspected of causing HLLE, so minimizing the movement will minimize any grinding that might occur.

mixed gfo and carbon in the same canister???

I have done this, but it will depend on how much your system needs, and the size of the reactor. You will need to mix the two at a rate of about 2 or 3 parts GAC to each part of GFO, so the GFO doesn't solidify. I've found it best to rinse the two before mixing, so it can be a little messy too.

Like others said you typically want to have carbon tumble a little and with Gfo its a no no.

You want the reverse here: GAC - little to no movement, GFO must move enough (fluidized) to keep it from solidifying.

Also you can change your Gfo on a less frequent basis.

This is true. Depending on the amount of PO4 in your system, the GFO will have its own replacement cycle.

I have a friend that mixed carbon and gfo.

So you can do either.

 

[coralsnaked]

I use single reactors on smaller systems and mix medias. GAC pelletized carbon on bottom and GFO on top so it can tumble. Mostly for space savings in sumps. Or the case of my JBJ 28's only hanging one off the back

 

[reef tank 2.0]

to continue on this thread, this is about reactor placement......

the directions say to keep the reactor installed at the same height as the sump/pump. I wanted to place the reactors above the sump where I have room. What happens if they are mounted at different elevations?

 

[reef tank 2.0]

Anyone?

 

[downbeach]

There might be a head problem with the pump if they provide one. Some pumps may not have enough power to push the water up to whatever height you will be installing it. It can work, but you may need to use a stronger pump, depending on the application.