Switching from atomizer to reactor

[GillesF]

Hi guys

I've been using atomizers for quite some time now. I like them but I'm thinking of switching to a reactor. The reason why is because I have my atomizer on the inlet side (on the outlet it created too much mist with my bubble rate) and it tends to build up CO2 in the filter which in return makes some noise at night (I sleep near my aquarium). I still have an extra canister filter (Eheim Ecco Pro) and was planning on using it to connect the reactor to without losing water current on my main filter.

But how should I distribute the CO2 to get even distribution throughout my entire aquarium? My main filter has a spray bar mounted on the back and pointing towards the front glass, creating even water circulation on both sides of the tank. Should I place a "normal" outlet next to the spray bar and have it point towards the front too? Won't this disturb the circulation of the main filter pump? And any opinions on the HS Mix/Max reactor as a cheaper alternative to the AM1000

Cheers
Gilles

 

[Florin Ilia]

If you don't need the extra flow you can simply add the reactor inline on your existing outlet (assuming the hoses are compatible).

 

[GillesF]

The tank is 80-90 liters (24 gallons), the filter has a capacity of 1050 L/H which is 10-12x more. I want to keep as much flow as possible. Would a reactor reduce the flow too much?

 

[GillesF]

Allright, I've ordered the Max/Mix reactor and two flexible filter outlets (this stuff). I'll connect the reactor to my second filter and have it shut off when CO2 is not needed.

Any ideas how I should place the duo outlets? I was thinking of having one "arm" of the outlet on the reactor side go from left to right in the back to provide some CO2 for the stem plants in the back (I'm having some problems there) and one arm towards the front middle where most of the foreground plants are (problems there too). Should I keep the spray bar on the main filter (back to front) or replace it by a flexible outlet too?

 

[dutchy]

My reactors take around 200 to 300 lph of capacity, so quite a lot. An outlet directed to the front screen, just downward or which flows out at substrate level takes care of good CO2 efficiency. The spraybar can take care of surface ripple.

 

[GillesF]

The extra filter has a capacity of 600l/h if I remember correctly. How about CO2 in the left and right frond corners? Will I have enough there?

 

[dutchy]

Hard to say, but if the total flow capacity is around 8 to 10x tank volume I don't expect it to be a problem.

 

[GillesF]

Tried connecting the duo outlet, seems like it's a piece of crap ... leaks everywhere and eventually I spent more time cleaning up then testing my stuff ...

 

[GillesF]

Allright, I installed the reactor but it's making way too much noise. Apparently my bubble rate is much too high so my reactor is unable to dissolve everything ...

 

[mathman]

I'm sorry to hear that. Now, I made my own reactor with parts purchased from home depot. I've been using this for 2 yrs; however, I'm doubting it's effectiveness. I have a large bubble rate as well and I'm sure that some gas does collect inside the reactor. View attachment 3372

View attachment 3373

I'm curious to know what other people are using and is there a consensus on "the most effective co2 reactor"

Thanks.

 

[Htomassini]

I think it all depends on the tank. For example, some people get great results from diffusers, others from fractionators, reactors, etc. there are so many configurations, flow rates and co2 demands that it's impossible to rate best.


Henry tomassini
www.theplantedaquariumstore.com
Sent from my iPad using Tapatalk HD

 

[mathman]

Here's the reactor I am using...

Let me know what you think.
Thanks

 

[Gerryd]

Hey,

Looks good, I would be concerned about the small size of the brass barbs as that size will limit flow... what are they 5/8?

Not sure about the use of the elbows????

 

[mathman]

The brass barbs are 5/8 as my eheim hose have a nice tight fit on them.

The elbows, in my opinion, would allow for a nicer flow of water as oppose to a sharp 90 degree turn.

 

[Gerryd]

The elbows, in my opinion, would allow for a nicer flow of water as oppose to a sharp 90 degree turn.

Hi,

No disrespect intended...I was surprised to see elbows PERIOD. I had not seen a reactore with them before is all.. Most have straight on inlet/outlets....

I agree with the use as they are better. I like the sweep elbows as well....

 

[mathman]

Thanks Gerry. How long do you think I should wait for the PVC cement to cure prior to connecting it to the tank?

 

[inkslinger]

http://www.plantedtank.net/forums/showthread.php?t=165975&highlight=ext5000