Dosing 2 parts vs. ca reactor

[coralshunter]

Hi,

Which way would your guys prefer?

 

[nayrgaijin]

https://www.reef2reef.com/forums/f16/2part-vs-reactor-32387.html

 

[mytshall]

Reactors can cause an overdose from time to time

 

[BeakerBob]

I have more control dosing 2-part and do not have to worry about a mechanical or electrical failure that could crash my tank.

 

[gparr]

How big is your tank? If it's a large tank, dosing two-part might be cost prohibitive. If it's less than 100 gal., two-part may be the best way. In general, keeping the number of mechanical elements to a minimum in reef systems is a good thing.
Gary

 

[milkman]

I use 2 part with BRS pumps controlled by my Apex. Easy, stable, not expensive.

I have a 120 gal display, 40 gal, and 45 gal tanks all one one system with a 75 gal sump. Dose into the sump for about 6 min each hour during lights out. Use about 1 gal each of alk and cal about every three weeks.

I buy the BRS bulk alk, cal, and mag which saves over the pre-measured kits.

 

[fsn77]

I dosed 2-part for a few years, then decided a calcium reactor might be the way to go. Nearly a year later, I'm glad I switched to a calcium reactor.
Yes, the initial cost is pretty high. Yes, it took a little time to get it set up properly. However, after that initial learning curve, it's been quite simple and saves me time.

 

[beaslbob]

The costs of 2 part are negligable with the diy two part.

For instance 50 Pounds of calcium is $15, 50 pounds of magnesium id $30.

 

[RBursek]

Even though I am a "Pro" here, I have limited knowledge on Ca reactors, just what I have read on the forums. First if I remember right they can create a PH low problem from the CO2, if it gets out of control, Randy Holmes-Farley who is one of this hobbies chemical gurus, does not use one!!! He doses 2 part, take it from there.
Nitrite and the Reef Aquarium by Randy Holmes-Farley - Reefkeeping.com

 

[secretreefer]

i've been dosing 2 part since i started. haven't been able to be brave enuff and have $$$ to go with a ca reactor. i've been happy tho with my growth and color!.

 

[coralshunter]

Thanks for all your helps. Now I have to make a decision, my tank is 200g, so for a long run I think I am leaning toward the ca reactor. Beside I think the reactor also keeps the parameter much more stable and consistent than dosing.

 

[TopNotchCorals]

Did the ca reactor thing long ago and It was nothing but a PITA for me,when it works its great but its like a ph time bomb waiting to go off and destroy and thats exactly what it did to my tank2part all the way no matter what size the tank in my opinion.

 

[Redstag]

I was switch from Calcium Reactor to dosing two parts. I'm happy with the dosing two parts that so easy to control the level in my tank. Btw, ouch I'm currently dosing 5 parts not two parts (Calcium, Alk, Magnesium, Microbacter 7 and Vodka) I might take off the Vodka later since I'm running the Vertex Bio Pellets.

 

[coralshunter]

I was switch from Calcium Reactor to dosing two parts. I'm happy with the dosing two parts that so easy to control the level in my tank. Btw, ouch I'm currently dosing 5 parts not two parts (Calcium, Alk, Magnesium, Microbacter 7 and Vodka) I might take off the Vodka later since I'm running the Vertex Bio Pellets.

It looks like you turn a hobby into a chore, that seems like a lot of work everyday for me. I want something that' s a handfree after tuned in. I was told it's kind of hard to adjust it right the first couple week but after that you can have it running for months without worry. Can I ask why you switched?

 

[Redstag]

I have problem with the PH low in my tank with the Deltec 601s Calcium Reactor.

 

[waxy]

I do both, just RX when I'm not around, but dose when I am, or when the parameters are off.

Good way to top everything off.

 

[Redstag]

Now I switched over to Dose two parts with two Bubble Magnus dosing pumps.

 

[yellojello]

Now I switched over to Dose two parts with two Bubble Magnus dosing pumps.

@Redstag

Which other supplements are you dosing on top of the 3 parts?

 

[Redstag]

For Alk I'm using Arm&Hammer baking soda I bought from Costco. It's around $6.66 for 13.5 lb that take me forever to finish this bag. Per on Randy Instruction I need 2 1/4 cups to make 1 gallons (need to bake).
Costco Business Delivery - Arm & Hammer Pure Baking Soda 13.5 lbs

For Calcium and Magnesium I bought them at Galladechem company. 2 dollars a pound for food grade Calcium and Magnesium...If I go with industrial Calcium and Magnesium the price is cheaper.

Gallade Chemical - Delivery

 

[coralshunter]

I have problem with the PH low in my tank with the Deltec 601s Calcium Reactor.

How low was your ph?