Kalk Reactor - Stirrer vs. Pump

[kretzkiller]

Which is better? I am leaning towards the stirrer so I can leave it running non-stop. I don't want to have to worry about a timer or pump failing. I was looking for some input on who uses what and their opinions about it.

[hyperfocal]

Well, you don't want to leave it running non-stop; if you do, you run the risk of adding extra kalk that's held in suspension. Just mixing a few times a day is fine.

That said, I'm using an Eheim 1250 to mix mine. I just realized that I've worn out the impeller after less than a year of use. The plastic shaft that runs up through the middle of the impeller (that the blades clip onto) has worn down enough to make start-up unreliable (and it rattles badly when it does start up). The impeller is a $30 part (plus shipping) on a $75 dollar pump :-(

[Mako]

Kalk Reactor's will always tear up pumps eventually. Go with a stir model instead.

[mr&mrsfish]

I have two PM Kalk Reactors and I have to change the impellers every couple months if I refill with > 2 cups. If I refill the reactor with less Kalk, then the impellers last longer.

[kretzkiller]

has anyone used the MRC nilsen reactor?

[compulou]

I have an old Fishbowlz Kalk Reactor with a magnetic stir bar working NON-STOP for almost 3 years now. And what I mean by non-stop is it has NEVER given me a problem so I never have to shut it off unless I'm re-filling the kalk.

It has an internal timer that turns the stir bar about every couple of hours.

I know of a couple of friends that have had to replace their pumps on reactors that run off of pumps.

I wonder how many pumps I would of gone through in 3 years.

[hyperfocal]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=14867899#post14867899 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by compulou

I wonder how many pumps I would of gone through in 3 years.

By my experience, 3 impellers. How much did the stirrer cost?

[kretzkiller]

I think I am leaning towards the stirrer. now any suggestions on which one?

[mojo~]

I have been reading up on them some and well their are not that many to choose from. Deltec aquamedic are the only two stirrers I can find. MAybe someone else knows of one.

[kretzkiller]

+1 i am not going to pay 500 for a deltec kalk reactor. i am leaning towards the aquamedic
<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=14868900#post14868900 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by mojo~
I have been reading up on them some and well their are not that many to choose from. Deltec aquamedic are the only two stirrers I can find. MAybe someone else knows of one.