ATS vs Refugium vs Reactor

[Coach v]

I am rebooting my 120 into a fowlr predator. I use tap water (no chlorine) and will continue to use tap water. I have had algea problems, but my nitrates have always been low (I assume from algea growth). Tank has been void of livestock minus a few hermits for about 6 months, I lost my skimmer. I have a basement sump and a new-to-me RO 160 classic skimmer. My son's 30 gallon mixed reef is also going to be plumbed in.

I would like to use either an ats or a refugium (I really don't know much about reactors). It will be diy with led lights. I assume the ats will have more success out performing display algea. Which do you like and why?

 

[ddrueckh]

I use a refugium because it doesn’t need as much maintenance as an ATS or Reactor. I just grab a handful of Chaeto once in a while and give it away or throw it away.

 

[Dan I]

ATS in my opinion is the route to go if you don't have room for a large refugium.

 

[Coach v]

What consists of a large refugium? I think I would enjoy the maintenance of a refugium more than an ats, but worry if it will be enough to out compete display algea. My display has fowlr leds nothing close to being able to keep light needing creatures.

 

[hart24601]

I prefer refugiums with macro. Less complexity, easy to harvest, scales up quite well if needed.

 

[ReeferReefer]

Some live rock and a few handfuls of your chosen macro algae. Remove a handful or two of macro every few weeks and you have a reliable and easy form of nutrient export.

 

[BrandonS]

large refugium is probably 10 to 20% of total tank volume. at least that is what triton suggests.