Dosing pump vs calcium reactor.

[Krazykarl]

Ok so I'm starting to increase my sps livestock slowly but surely and I know eventually simple kalk in my ato won't be enough. I'm dabbling in the idea of doing a dosing pump like blob or a calcium reactor. A dosing pump is the cheaper way to go however, this may sound stupid but can someone please tell me what they are using to make their calcium solution, all solution and whatever else is being dosed. Is it expensive? Pros and cons of this. Ultimately I want to make a decision which is more cost effective and also the best way to go....

 

[pulpfiction1]

calcium reactors

http://reef.diesyst.com/crarticle/crarticle.htm


as a 2 pt doser i use brs
they have all the how to and recipe videos
http://www.bulkreefsupply.com/store/products/calcium-alkalinity-magnesium

 

[teebone110]

KK,

If you want to get into 2 part, most of us use the BRS supply to mix our own
http://www.bulkreefsupply.com/store/products/calcium-alkalinity-magnesium/two-part-calcium-and-alkalinity-solution

You can get started these salts with jugs and manual pumps for under $40.
Look to get this through one of their specials or a group buy and save even more.

Things can get a little more expensive when you get into dosing pumps, but will make things more stable and free you from always having to remember to dose your tank. I think the chinese dosing pumps through aquastyle are the best bang for just over 200 bucks.

You can really save money and go the DIY route http://www.advancedaquarist.com/2004/4/chemistry
(you can get some of these salts from Bulk Barn)
Epsom salts for magnesium (magnesium sulfate)
Baking soda for alkalinity

then you can use DowFlake calcium from a pool supply store for your calcium chloride, its usually $30 a bag though ???
I think the BRS calcium chloride is best since it is pure and pharmaceutical grade.

 

[Zakk]

I use the BRS 2-part (not sure why they don't call it 3 part, but anyway) as well.  Their simple dosing pumps are excellent and come up for sale every so often. 

 

[Krazykarl]

Great read pulp thanks guys.

 

[Blob-79]

im using the brs 2 part as well. Im using the doser i got from the led group buy and i gotta say, its worth the money. Fully programable and easy to program and set up.

 

[Darryl_V]

Hey Rob I saw that on your thread (nice stuff) but didnt have time to comment.  Im wondering why you have to use the check valves, it doesnt back-siphon does it?

 

[Blob-79]

no it doesnt back siphon i tested to make sure it held its prime. I just put them on cause they came with the doser, figured an extra layer of protection couldnt be a bad thing.

(and thanks btw )