Calcium reactor, should I do it?

[Fourstars]

I’m tired of dosing two part and finally thinking of upgrading to a reactor. Will it save me money over the long term? What are some of the other benefits?

 

[joseserrano]

Yes.

 

[EddieM]

What size tank do you have? Types of coral? I run a CaRx on my SPS dominant 220. I fill a 20 lb Co2 tank about every 18 mos and top off the reactor every 6-8 months. Once dialed in, its practically maintenance free and levels are always in balance.

 

[Fourstars]

150 gallon mixed tank heavy SPS. I have used co2 before In planted tanks so comfortable with the system, just want to make sure the up front cost will be covered in a year or two. It’s hard to change ;-)

 

[Realposition]

your payback time will depend entirely on the set up you purchase. I think it will take a lot longer than a year for the average user, ymmv.

 

[Fourstars]

I guess the real payback is the rock steady alk, cal, mag.

 

[Realposition]

I've used both, I saw no noticeable difference between a reactor and 2 part on a dosing pump. I went back to 2 part stickly to increase my pH again.

 

[EddieM]

150 gallon mixed tank heavy SPS. I have used co2 before In planted tanks so comfortable with the system, just want to make sure the up front cost will be covered in a year or two. It’s hard to change ;-)

Cost alone will take a few years to recoup, but the stability and lack of constant maintenance made it a no brainer for me, especially with a larger tank.

I figure you're looking at anywhere from $1K to $1500 in initial cost, and I highly recommend a CarbonDoser regulator and a peristaltic dosing pump, such as a Kamoer or used Masterflex, and a dual chamber reactor. That aside, they all operate essentially the same. The larger the capacity will allow you to run a slightly lower effluent and less Co2, which will help with pH levels.