calcium reactor or 2 part?
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CORALUST
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Dosing is easier to set up and doesn't require a CO2 tank.
EW_Fish
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2 part is much easier IMO and set up cost can be half of what a full calcium system would be
GoVols
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The only true reason for going with a cal. reactor is for cost savings against using two part over the long haul on a big reef. 
Bj’s Reef
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I'm Leaning towards a calcium reactor for my system. My tank is a 150 gal system. So do you guys think a calcium reactor would be better for a system of my size. Or should would a two part system be ok? I'm Asking this so I can be a part of the conversation. I hope you guys don't mind.
Personally, I would use a calcium reactor on any size tank, however I feel that I would only recommend it for those tanks over 90g. Dosing is just too east for those tanks that are smaller
Breadman03
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I believe that they are effectively equal. The first thing I would ask is this:
How long do you plan on running this system?
If you say you're not sure or for a little while before upgrading, or that you're new to this, I'd suggest two part. A little powder and water along with a couple empty soda bottles can get you started.
If you're looking for the long haul, a calcium reactor becomes much more appealing.
System size is also a factor. A calcium reactor costs a bit of money up front, but the consumables are quite inexpensive. Two part is very inexpensive to set up, but the consumables cost more than a cal reactor.
Something else to consider is pH. I don't think two part has an impact, but a cal reactor will introduce some CO2 into the system and slightly decrease pH. I really wouldn't worry about this unless you are fighting low pH already, and a secondary reaction chamber pretty much eliminates the factor.
Using kalkwasser will raise pH, and can be combined with other dosing methods.
How long do you plan on running this system?
If you say you're not sure or for a little while before upgrading, or that you're new to this, I'd suggest two part. A little powder and water along with a couple empty soda bottles can get you started.
If you're looking for the long haul, a calcium reactor becomes much more appealing.
System size is also a factor. A calcium reactor costs a bit of money up front, but the consumables are quite inexpensive. Two part is very inexpensive to set up, but the consumables cost more than a cal reactor.
Something else to consider is pH. I don't think two part has an impact, but a cal reactor will introduce some CO2 into the system and slightly decrease pH. I really wouldn't worry about this unless you are fighting low pH already, and a secondary reaction chamber pretty much eliminates the factor.
Using kalkwasser will raise pH, and can be combined with other dosing methods.
GoVols
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If your going all out SPS on your 150 then a cal reactor could be a good choice. You need to know what your getting into and how to run one.
If you already struggle with low ph, then a cal. reactor might not be the right choice.
You should look into dosing kalk as your solution too. It holds our cal., alk and can give very good ph.
No one way, is the best way.
Do your research and ask for help.
Nobody minds your question. We are all R2R family and still learning too.
Regards, GoVols
reefbroke
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No worries abut hijacking. The more questions the more we all learn.
Randy Holmes-Farley
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I compare the pros and cons of all the basic methods of supplementing calcium and alkalinity here:
The Many Methods for Supplementing Calcium and Alkalinity - REEFEDITION
https://www.reef2reef.com/blog/the-many-methods-for-supplementing-calcium-and-alkalinity
The Many Methods for Supplementing Calcium and Alkalinity - REEFEDITION
https://www.reef2reef.com/blog/the-many-methods-for-supplementing-calcium-and-alkalinity
Randy Holmes-Farley
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You're welcome.
Happy Reefing.
Happy Reefing.
reefbroke
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Good read. So if I'm reading this right my 180gal mixed reef would do best with a reactor?
Randy Holmes-Farley
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I wouldn't conclude that. I used limewater for 20 years in a mixed reef, and a two part is also a good choice.
reefbroke
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I wouldn't conclude that. I used limewater for 20 years in a mixed reef, and a two part is also a good choice.
Now you've confused me all over again! Lol
