Need opinions about topoff setup

[hawkinsrgk]

I am thinking about upgrading my topoff system. Currently I am using a Level-Loc Auto Topoff from BRS. It has worked well for the last 5 years, but it is almost worn out. The switch does not work all the time, the solenoid is rusty so I have been thinking about a new setup. The Level-Loc is setup on a Reefkeeper and runs for 30 min a day that is hooked up directly to the RO/DI.

Another side issue is that my PH is on the low side (7.7 - 7.85). So this is what I am thinking about doing.

Parts List for new setup
BRS 50ml/min topoff doser
1 double switch controller from autotopoff.com
2 solenoids from autotopoff.com
T fitting
K2 Kalk Stirrer from avast marine works
SLX module and PH probe from reefkeeper

On the output side of the topoff doser I would run a T fitting. After the T fitting I would have a solenoid connected to each. One of the outputs would go directly to the sump. The other output would goto the Kalk Stirrer and then to the sump. I would have both solenoids plugged into the reefkeeper so that if the PH < 8.3 it would use the solenoid connected to the Kalk Stirrer. If PH > 8.3 it would just use RO/DI water.

I have a couple of friends that dumped too much Kalk and caused a disaster, so I am trying to avoid that scenario.

Let me know what you think. Is this too over the top and totally unnecessary? Also is there a better and cheaper way to address these 3 issues?

Thanks for the help
Randy

 

[redfishbluefish]

I'm not a kalk user so I really can't comment about that....although the setup sounds reasonable. The only thing I'd change is the pump.....50mls a min is off the charts, unless you have an extremely large tank. I use a Tom's Aqualifter for a 90 gallon DT / 40B sump and it typically is only on for a minute or so to keep the tank volume constant.

 

[hawkinsrgk]

Thanks redfishbluefish

The tank is a 180 gallon and a 125 gallon plumbed together to a 150 gallon rubbermaid stock tank. Total tank volume is around 380-400 gallons

 

[JBNY]

Might want to just have all you top-off go through your kalk reactor and just have the reefkeeper, shut down your ATO and page you if the pH goes above 8.6. I have been doing that for about 12 years and never had a problem.

 

[hawkinsrgk]

Thanks JBNY. Never really thought about doing it that way.
How often do you refill your kalk reactor and how do know when it needs to be refilled?

 

[JBNY]

I evaporate about 3-5 gallons a day, so I put a cup of kalk in my reactor every 3-4 weeks. You will sort of know when to change it by your pH getting lower than it normally does, so if your low for the tank is is 8.25 and you notice it dropping down to 8.1 you can assume the kalk needs a topoff. You can also measure the pH with a probe, take some kalk water and it should read close to 11. 10 or less and you can start thinking about adding some more, also you will physically see there is less kalk in the reactor so that should also give you a hint.

 

[buzzword]

I use a Kalk King now and love it. ATO Kalk doser and PH monitor although controller is better. Gave up the calcium reactor and just use this, works great. Steady pH, Calcium and Alk.

 

[hawkinsrgk]

I use a Kalk King now and love it. ATO Kalk doser and PH monitor although controller is better. Gave up the calcium reactor and just use this, works great. Steady pH, Calcium and Alk.

It looks like a pretty good unit. I would want more water volume though.