calcium reactor vs dosing pump
calcium reactor vs dosing pump
I'm setting up a new 120-gallon reef tank and can't decide between a calcium reactor or a dosing pump. My LPS corals are growing slow, and I need to boost calcium levels. Which one's better for long-term stability?
Re: calcium reactor vs dosing pump
A calcium reactor's gonna give you more consistent levels, especially if you're running a mixed reef with SPS. I've used both, and the reactor's way better for heavy demand. Just make sure you dial in the CO2 right, or you'll mess with your pH.
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musiclover - Posts: 9
- Joined: Fri Apr 07, 2023 12:12 pm
Re: calcium reactor vs dosing pump
Agreed! I switched to a reactor last year, and my Acros have never looked better. Dosing pumps are chill for smaller tanks, but with your size, go big.
Re: calcium reactor vs dosing pump
Dosing pumps are easier to set up, though. No messing with CO2 tanks or media. I've got a 90-gallon with mostly Zoas and softies, and my doser keeps things steady. Plus, you can tweak individual elements if something's off.
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deepsea_lake - Posts: 4
- Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2024 5:16 pm
Re: calcium reactor vs dosing pump
Reactors are more efficient long-term. You'll burn through less media, and the cost evens out. I run mine with a pH controller to avoid swings. What's your alk sitting at right now? That'll help decide.
Re: calcium reactor vs dosing pump
I'm team dosing pump. Less stuff to go wrong, and you can automate it with a controller. My tank's only 75 gallons, but it's packed with LPS, and the doser keeps up fine. Just test weekly to stay on top.
Re: calcium reactor vs dosing pump
Both have pros and cons. If you're not comfy tweaking CO2, a doser might be safer. But if you're after rock-solid stability, the reactor's the move. What's your maintenance routine like? That'll factor in.
Re: calcium reactor vs dosing pump
Yeah, but reactors are more hands-off once they're dialed in. I barely touch mine except for media refills. Dosing pumps need more babysitting, IMO.
Re: calcium reactor vs dosing pump
Thanks for the input, everyone. Sounds like the reactor's the way to go for my setup. Gonna start researching models.