Does anyone here run a nitrate reactor on their tank? I 'm already running a
Korallin calcium reactor (CR) and have a
Next Reef MR1 media reactor that I've been thinking of turning into a nitrate reactor (NR) for my 120g reef.
- I know the advantages of a NR, what are the disadvantages?
I have a sulfur-based denitrifier on my 120-gallon reef. I had levels of nitrates on the reef that I couldn't reduce even after setting up a substantial growth of chaeto under an effective light, increased water changes, etc. Once I put the sulfur denitrifier on the tank, the nitrates were undetectable. So, I recommend one. The disadvantage is that after a year or so, the sulfur and aragonite has to be changed...that takes about a half-hour. Also, because the flow through the sulfur denitrifier is as slow as it is, you have to check to see that it's running properly....once every two weeks I take the return to the tank out just to see that the flow's not blocked by any residue. That's about it as far as my experience is concerned.
How do I keep sulfuric acid from lowering the pH of the water?
one half of the "reactor" is filled with the sulfur medium (beads) and the other is filled with the same kind of aragonite medium that would be used in a calcium reactor. The only thing I'd point out is that it's best to use the kind that are like small rocks so they don't get blocked in any way and the water flow through them isn't likely to get obstructed. That's your buffer and it works.
How do I keep hydrogen sulfide gas from forming in the NR?
When the flow is correct you won't get any residual hydrogen sulfide gas. If you begin to smell the "rotten egg smell," just increase the flow slightly. I never have that smell, though in the first week I did until I got it right. I've had the denitrifier for about 4-years, now.
How do I determine the flow rate for the NR?
You start out with about a drop a second. If you start to smell the hydrogen sulfide gas, you just release the restrictor that you have on the (airline) tubing and increase the flow just a bit until you no longer get the smell...That's all the adjusting it needs.
Can I plum the NR inline with the CR by putting the NR first?
If I can plumb it inline with the CR, will I have to move the CR's intake pump to the NR or get another pump for the NR altogether?
If I can't plumb it with the CR, how do I go abut setting it up on its own?
Anything else I should be asking?Thanks!
Robin[/QUOTE]
I wouldn't. Maybe it can be done, but I'd keep them separate. And, I'll PM you with some more info on this.
