Need advise on a calcium reactor

[twistoflime]

I would like to look into buying aa calcium reactor. My set up is a 420g reef tank, so I need somthing that can handle that. I plan to have a tank with zoas, lots of sps, and lps. Any suggested brands?
Thanks, Diane

 

[grouper therapy]

Geo and MRC are both high quality units.

 

[lilrobb]

MRC, hands down!
They're local and super willing to help/customize...

 

[twistoflime]

So this one would be good?
http://www.myreefcreations.com/CR-2-Dual">http://www.myreefcreations.com/CR-2-Dual</a>
What else would I need to get with a basic unit?

 

[weaglereefer]

Basic components for a Calcium reactor are:


the reactor body (usually comes with circulation pump...that MRC does not)

the media (stuff that dissolves to provide calcium)

a CO2 tank (5-20lbs, take your pick)

a CO2 regulator (screwed onto the tank and has a solenoid that turns on/off the flow of CO2 gas)

some sort of controller standalone or part of a larger tank controller, usually involving a pH probe either in the media chamber or in an effluent cup dripping back into the tank

and finally some way to feed water to the reactor (that MRC requires a Mag2 it says)



I just got my CA reactor up and running after taking about 3 months acquiring different parts.

 

[lilrobb]

If you really plan on "a lot" of SPS - go with the CR4.
You'll need a solenoid, CO2 bottle and a pH controller, the recirc pump and a small (maxijet'ish) feedpump.

Robb

 

[skriz]

twistoflime;552203 wrote: So this one would be good?
http://www.myreefcreations.com/CR-2-Dual">http://www.myreefcreations.com/CR-2-Dual</a>
What else would I need to get with a basic unit?[/QUOTE]

The CR-2 is a phenomenal calcium reactor. It would work really well on your system. If you're going to go with a lot of clams and really pile in the sps, spend a little more and jump up to the CR-6.

You'll need a CO2 bottle, CO2 regulator, recirc pump, feed pump and media. If you still have your Neptune controller, you can use it to control the reactor for ultimate control and ease of use.