Calcium Reactor

[Maks Reef]

Hey Everyone,

Been budgeting and am ready to pull the trigger on a calcium reactor. Going to go all out and am looking for thoughts on the best components out there. Thinking about the carbondoser regulator and FX-STP peri pump. I am lost on what reactor to look at... Then PH monitoring/automation. Apex? Milwaukee? Any help would be great!

 

[vetteguy53081]

Geo most popular. I have the vertex and wish they were still in business as the quality and design is fantastic.
Korallen makes a great unit and the reef octopus. .. I haven't seen enough data yet

 

[Maks Reef]

Geo most popular. I have the vertex and wish they were still in business as the quality and design is fantastic.
Korallen makes a great unit and the reef octopus. .. I haven't seen enough data yet

Yeah I wish I could find a Vertex - I have seen a bunch of video's with it. Thanks for the insight - I'll check out the GEO products.

 

[dank reefer]

1+ on the Geo Reactors. They are built like tanks.

Kamora for the peri pump is a great choice, and another good choice is the new versa pump from Ecotech.

 

[Maks Reef]

1+ on the Geo Reactors. They are built like tanks.

Kamora for the peri pump is a great choice, and another good choice is the new versa pump from Ecotech.

Thanks - I agree, wish someone had the Versa in stock - they are sold out every where I have looked. I'd love to get 5 and set up the CalReac/Mag/AutoWaterChange/and top off.

 

[svogun]

Ever thought about getting an auto CaRx like the Dastaco?

 

[TLO45]

I have used Geo with Carbon Doser with Masterflex pump. Geo is built very solidly and has been around a good number of years. I think most reactors will probably work but key components are the regulator ( I’d suggest a Carbon Doser) and a quality peristaltic pump that is for constant use. The Masterflex was the best option when I had mine but since there are other more price friendly options. Just make sure it is for 24 hour continuous use! I have moved to a Deltec Twin Tech reactor that is similar to the Dastaco reactors. Need more Alk just bump up the controller...the reactor automatically adjusts the rest. If I was looking to get into the CA reactor game today I would recommend Dastaco or The Deltec Twin Tech Either would be great.

 

[Maks Reef]

Ever thought about getting an auto CaRx like the Dastaco?

Never heard of it - I'll take a look though. Thanks for sharing

 

[Maks Reef]

I have used Geo with Carbon Doser with Masterflex pump. Geo is built very solidly and has been around a good number of years. I think most reactors will probably work but key components are the regulator ( I’d suggest a Carbon Doser) and a quality peristaltic pump that is for constant use. The Masterflex was the best option when I had mine but since there are other more price friendly options. Just make sure it is for 24 hour continuous use! I have moved to a Deltec Twin Tech reactor that is similar to the Dastaco reactors. Need more Alk just bump up the controller...the reactor automatically adjusts the rest. If I was looking to get into the CA reactor game today I would recommend Dastaco or The Deltec Twin Tech Either would be great.

Thanks so much - I'll definitely look into those. I want to make sure I get a good quality setup that will last me, really appreciate the insight.

 

[ReefGeezer]

I have a Vertex. I bought it used. It works, but I can see where I'll have trouble replacing the pump in the future. I'd choose a Geo if I had to do it over.

You can set up the reactor many ways, from inexpensive to just crazy expensive. I chose the pretty darn expensive route: Dual Stage Regulator; Swaglock Needle Valve; a Milwaukee pH Controller; and a FX-STP peri pump.

I don't use the pH controller except as a safety. The system dialed in quite easily and the pH never moves. I haven't touched the reactor since I got it dialed in.

BUT... Many do about the same with just an inexpensive regulator, a decent needle valve, and a water input source like a power head, gravity feed, or even teeing off a return line. While this type of system may require a little more maintenance and adjustment, it works.

 

[Maks Reef]

Thank you for sharing. I definetely have a lot to think about. Appreciate the time everyone

 

[txrdnk]

Thank you for sharing. I definetely have a lot to think about. Appreciate the time everyone

I have used Geo with Carbon Doser with Masterflex pump. Geo is built very solidly and has been around a good number of years. I think most reactors will probably work but key components are the regulator ( I’d suggest a Carbon Doser) and a quality peristaltic pump that is for constant use. The Masterflex was the best option when I had mine but since there are other more price friendly options. Just make sure it is for 24 hour continuous use! I have moved to a Deltec Twin Tech reactor that is similar to the Dastaco reactors. Need more Alk just bump up the controller...the reactor automatically adjusts the rest. If I was looking to get into the CA reactor game today I would recommend Dastaco or The Deltec Twin Tech Either would be great.

where did you purchase the deltec twin tech? can't seem to find in usa

 

[TLO45]

I purchased mine through Adam Dickerson at Battlecorals.

 

[TLO45]

Deltec USA

Deltec USA

deltecdirectusa.com

 

[TLO45]

To give equal time (although I have not owner one) the Dastaco is sold through Unique Corals. I have no loyalty to anyone...just giving links. There may be other vendors...these are just the ones I’m familiar with.

 

[svogun]

Love my Dastaco. Unique Corals is great to work with.