CaRx effluent clogging

thabizness · Jul 13, 2016

My CaRx effluent has been clogging after a few days. I understand this is a common issue. What rate do u run the effluent at to minimize this issue?

I'm looking for how many ml per minute you run yours at. I know a peristaltic pump will solve the issue - I just can't purchase on in the short term. I also would like to hear from people who have the valve on input side or if you have used needle/gate/flow valves on the effluent and how you like it. I'm currently using a pinch valve.

DLuce510 · Jul 13, 2016

I run a steady stream and high pH. I think I run about 30ml in 10 seconds. I don't believe that's too important but just need a steady stream. I have valves on both sides so I can isolate it for maintenence but I run the stream from a needle valve on the effluent outlet.

DLuce510 · Jul 13, 2016

Here's a good thread with tons of info.

https://www.reef2reef.com/threads/tuning-your-calrx-alternate-method-thats-too-easy.202048/

dson78 · Jul 13, 2016

You beat me to it, i was just about to post that same video. I used his instructions when i first started and got it dialed in pretty good. Few months later i sprung for a peristaltic pump to pull the water through the calcium reactor and it has been even more rock solid.

thabizness · Jul 13, 2016

I have watched that video and used it to tune but he doesn't have the effluent amount in ml. The terms "slow stream" or "broken stream" is up to interpretation. Maybe my interpretation is not correct which is why I am asking for values in ml. I looked thru the thread and saw a few mentions of on effluent rate (One was 90 another was 70) and I may try those to keep it from clogging.

Also interested in if I put the valve on the input side and control the flow from there will it clog less?

DLuce510 · Jul 13, 2016

thabizness said:
I have watched that video and used it to tune but he doesn't have the effluent amount in ml. The terms "slow stream" or "broken stream" is up to interpretation. Maybe my interpretation is not correct which is why I am asking for values in ml. I looked thru the thread and saw a few mentions of on effluent rate (One was 90 another was 70) and I may try those to keep it from clogging.

Also interested in if I put the valve on the input side and control the flow from there will it clog less?

I was looking for a specific amount at the start too but I think that's the point. It's supposed to be easy, go to the point of the fastest drip, almost a stream then a little more. The point is so you don't have to count any more, it's all based off pH.