Calcium Reactor / CO2

[turtleman9100]

is it mandantory to have a PH monitor / meter when running a calcium reactor? I know it makes things a lot easier but can I continue to test for PH levels manually until I can afford a really great PH monitor?

[mr_anderson]

the reason for the ph controller is to monitor the ph in the reaction chamber. if the ph in the reactor is too loo, it will make your media mushy and will not last as long. if you have it too high, the media will not dissolve, hince your ca/dKH will drop. I know that it could be done without a ph controller, but you will need to test a great deal. I personaly would keep dosing until you can afford a ph controller.

[turtleman9100]

Thanks for your advice.

[James77]

A controller can also be used to monitor the tanks pH, if it goes too low it will cut the CO2. I use this way because once you dial a reactor in with a consistent pressure gauge, it stays very steady.