High Nitrates Bio-Pellet Reactor

[xjjettx]

Hi, quick question, I have a 100gal mixed reef tank with high Nitrates 60ppm and added a OCTO BR-70 Bio-pellet reactor that can hold up to 300ml total and I started with 150ml of bio-pellets with the out-put flow of the reactor directed to the skimmers inflow. After just a few days my protein skimmer stopped skimming and looked like it was running lean "boiling water effect" ran the reactor for a month and no skimmate from protein skimmer. So I stopped the bio-pellet reactor and protein skimmer began working normal again after 6hrs. Any thoughts on why my protein skimmer stopped skimming with the bio-pellet reactor? Ive read its important to run both together for effectiveness...please help someone!!


xjjettx

 

[blaxsun]

Don't direct the output from the reactor into the skimmer; run them separately if at all possible. I run a skimmer and pair of reactors in the same chamber, but nothing is specifically directed anywhere - and I have a high flow volume that ensures a fresh water supply for everything.

 

[xjjettx]

how much bio-pellets should be starting with? I think the 150ml was probably to much?

 

[ocncheffy]

Just direct the reactor output to the previous chamber if possible, or in the same chamber as the skimmer. But not directed exactly at the intake of the skimmer.

 

[YOYOYOReefer]

i think its was your new plastic, did you rinse it , i generally give new pieces a vinegar dip and a scrub prior to putting in use.

150 is fine. just dont change it for at least a few weeks, see where it goes. Watch your alk P and N religiously., if you have alot of corals once the biopellets kick in growth spurt generally starts.

your skimmate will get dryer and stinkier once the BPs start doing their thing