Newb question on Calc reactors

Posted By Bluefool on 03/01/2010 01:13 PM
So I'm shopping for a Calc reactor, and a few of them offer a second media chamber.   Why would I want that?  Just so I don't have to fill it as often?
Why would I pay close to double for a high end name brand as opposed to say, a Marineland one?  Isn't it just a container with media in it that has water run through it slowly?  Is this maybe a simple DIY project that could save me some cash?
Also, opinions wanted on what kind of calc reactor you have, and if you like it or not.
Thanks /DesktopModules/ActiveForums/themes/_default/emoticons/smile.gif.
The 2nd chamber helps diffuse CO2 before the effluent goes back in your sump.  I have never seen anything substantial on how much it helps but some people sleep better at night if they have it.
You don't have to pay a lot for one; you just have to find one that works well.  Some DIY works well while others don't.
I have used a couple premium brands and never had trouble with them.  A tried and true brand is GEO.  A lot of people use them with minimal issues.

 

You can also look at dosing two-part aka balling method. Depending on how long you think you would have a calc reactor, it would most likely be cheaper especially up front. All you need are the ingredients and maybe a couple dosing pumps to dose a set amount every day.