My DIY carbon reactor $17

[SouthernReefer17]

Didn't have the money for a reactor so I made an inline carbon reactor out of 2" PVC T pipe. Used my return pump and installed the reactor inline after the pump but before the tank return. Only cost $17. Works just like an expensive store bought reactor. 30 gal tank.

 

[Zack K]

Didn't have the money for a reactor so I made an inline carbon reactor out of 2" PVC T pipe. Used my return pump and installed the reactor inline after the pump but before the tank return. Only cost $17. Works just like an expensive store bought reactor. 30 gal tank.

Can I get some details! This thing looks awesome!

 

[Nick92515]

How do you know if you have the flow right through it?

 

[SouthernReefer17]

Very simple. Home improvement store: 2 inch Sanitary T, 2" cap, (2×) 2x1 3/4 (threaded) adapter, and 3/4" hose end. I have 3/4" hose on my return line, not PVC so you can switch it up if needed. Take your carbon, put it in a small mesh baggy, tie it up and put it in the top hole, screw the cap on and flush it. Hook it up between your return pump and tank return. Will clear up your water in 24 to 48 hours. Remember this is on a 30 gal tank. Bigger tanks means bigger PVC T's. Also don't be careful not to reduce your flow if your using an overflow box.

 

[SouthernReefer17]

How do you know if you have the flow right through it?

Just keep your inlet and outlet hole size the same as your return line.

 

[JBradford]

It's an interesting concept. Good job.

 

[SouthernReefer17]

It's an interesting concept. Good job.

Thank you.

 

[Jofiel]

Wow! I think I might try this since I am ordering plumbing parts this week. You're awesome!

 

[SouthernReefer17]

Wow! I think I might try this since I am ordering plumbing parts this week. You're awesome!

Give it a shot! Let me know how it works

 

[fishbox]

Still working good?

 

[SouthernReefer17]

Still working good?

Yes it is! I may make a new one with a couple tweaks so I don't have to use bags anymore for the carbon. I'm actually pleased with the little amount of carbon that it uses with the results I get. Also I will be switching out my metal hose clamps with stainless ones so they don't rust. Thanks for following.

 

[fishbox]

Why not get plastic clamps? I'm probably gonna make this within the next two weeks for my 29g. I'm curious, what mods are you planning to do away with the mesh bags? Are you having problems with the mesh?

 

[SouthernReefer17]

Why not get plastic clamps? I'm probably gonna make this within the next two weeks for my 29g. I'm curious, what mods are you planning to do away with the mesh bags? Are you having problems with the mesh?

Plastic will probably work too I just like the durability of the metal. I'm planning on my next one to insert some kind of screen on each end on the inside. That way I can just pour the carbon straight inside the T and not have to shove a bag in there. Or cap off the top of the T and make the left or right side removable for easier insertion of the carbon bag. Good luck with the build! Hope it works out for you

 

[fishbox]

I'm interested in seeing that. Please post

 

[SouthernReefer17]

I'm interested in seeing that. Please post

When the time comes for me to build a new one I sure will.

 

[primo21]

Plastic will probably work too I just like the durability of the metal. I'm planning on my next one to insert some kind of screen on each end on the inside. That way I can just pour the carbon straight inside the T and not have to shove a bag in there. Or cap off the top of the T and make the left or right side removable for easier insertion of the carbon bag. Good luck with the build! Hope it works out for you

seems like that will make it more difficult to change the carbon. you would have to remove the whole thing instead of just pulling the bag out???

 

[Tokash23]

Could i see a pic of it hooked up if you dont mind?

 

[SouthernReefer17]

It would be a threaded end so it would just unscrew like the cap on top. I will post a pic when I get home from work. Thanks for following this yall.

 

[PlanB]

Very cool DIY. Personally I would not use inline with my return, as its recommended to have low flow through carbon reactors (more contact time is desirable, I believe). But if it works for you, then it works.

 

[SouthernReefer17]

Very cool DIY. Personally I would not use inline with my return, as its recommended to have low flow through carbon reactors (more contact time is desirable, I believe). But if it works for you, then it works.

I'm not quite sure on that myself, it definitely creates crystal clear water in my 30gal but bigger tanks may require an actual reactor. This acts more as a "filter" if you will.