Kalk Reactor or Calcium Reactor

[spaulr]

I'm sure this has been covered many times before, but I wanted some suggestions for my setup.

40 gallon with ~12 gallon sump. I'd eventually like to keep mushrooms, LPS, and some SPS (but mostly LPS). I'm trying to decide which setup to get. I'm also looking FOR ANY way to automate things.

From what I've read - Some of this could be way off so please correct me...

Kalk reactors -
Easier Ph control
Initially cheaper
More mantenance
No CO2 tank = more space in stand
Need another tank for top off water
Need dosing pump
Need float control in sump for dosing control

Calcium Reactor -
Ph could potentially drop
Introduction of phosphates
Almost double the price
Very low maintenance once dialed in
Probably will need to use buffer to keep PH up

 

[Anonymous]

If you're looking for hands off then go with the Ca Reactor. Limewater is a lot cheaper but a lot more effort as well.

Your last point is dangerously incorrect. Don't add buffer if you're using a Ca reactor or you'll overdose on Carbonate.

 

[FragMaster]

Let it snow ..Let it snow...Let it snow....

 

[Anonymous]

Let it snow ..Let it snow...Let it snow....

:lol: :lol:

 

[spaulr]

What happens if you overdose on carbonate? Precipitation (snow)? Sorry, I'm a newb when it comes to adjusting ph, Alk, calcium, etc.

If I can use one or the other, why do some people use both? That seems like overkill. One of the aforementioned should solve the "problem" of low calcium or alk. What part of the "chemistry" aspect am I missing here?

Maybe these are really stupid questions, but I'm having trouble finding clear cut information about the WHY would you need one or the other. I just want to make the right decision the first time. Thanks for your help.

 

[FragMaster]

Calcium raises alk. They compliment eachother.
Once the water colum has absorbed as much calcium as it can it will then create a precipitation event. A snow like effect via unabsorbed calcium.

If you use a calcium reactor it will buffer PH,Alk, and raise calcium.
you can control the amount via bubble counter.


The reason most people use a calcium reactor versus dosing is that you dont have to buy and dose seperate chemicals, or mix lime water.
Less time consuming in the long run and way more accurate and reliable when you get it diald in.

It is much more costly than dosing or lime water by FAR but the end results when set up properly are unquestionable, and the end results more than pay for the system ( coral growth and over all system health and stability).
Just my 2 cents.

 

[ChrisRD]

Here's a recent thread that might be helpful:
http://www.reefs.org/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=82172&highlight=reactor