I have been using a Magnivore Simplicity UV Reactor for activated carbon since the start of the tank. The only problem with it is that it’s completely sealed so you have no idea if you have flow or not. When the pump that runs this reactor stopped working, I had no idea for a couple of weeks and this lead to the hair algae outbreak.
I’ve had the ViaAqua Poly-Reactor sitting in my garage for a long time, so last night I broke it out. Set up is simple and now it’s installed in my sump. The nice thing about it is you can see the water output from the reactor. This gives me that warm fuzzy that water is flowing through the carbon. I like this setup much better. I really wish I could fit another Bulk Reef Supply reactor, but I’m out of room!
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July 29, 2010 at 4:40 pm
Terry (Reefmack)
Hi Greg. I replaced my Simplicity reactor too – same reasons – I could never tell if it was working or not, of if the media was really fluidized or not. I went with a hang on Two Little Fishies phosban reactor, and an extra sponge – Purigen on the bottom, and a mix of carbon and Phoslock on top. It’s really nice to know it’s working and to be able to see the contents. Being a hang on it’s also more room in the sump. At the same time I put a new skimmer in the sump – an SWC 120 cone skimmer. Very happy with both. The new reactor will be a lot less hassle and mess to change media too – the Simplicity was a real PITA to take out and put back in.
July 29, 2010 at 4:46 pm
gregandmellina
I agree Terry. I love the BRS reactor, but since it’s so big, I can only fit one in the cabinet. I’m running pure GFO in that one and now Rox carbon in the Via Aqua. I love being able to look into the sump and see the water flowing through each reactor, makes me feel all warm and fuzzy knowing the filtration system is working.