How long to run GFO/Carbon reactor for?

[vp6799]

I have a bulk reef supply dual GFO and Carbon reactor that I just set up and was wondering how long do I run it for?

I have minimal phos issues and there's some hair algae starting. So I set up the reactor to bring the phos under control. It also runs carbon. How long can/do I run it for? Can I just leave it running 24/7?


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[jamesdong009]

I run mine 24/7

 

[SteveDola]

Over the years Ive come to the conclusion that running carbon 24/7 is a bad idea. at a certain point carbon stops absorbing and can lleach out. I run my passively in a sock for 2-3 days at a time every few weeks. This has been my schedule for the last year. Ive tried it every which way but after replenishing carbon in the reactor I would have coral problems. This way I have none. I tried GFO but dont like relying a media like GFO to reduce my po4...Id rather get it in check with proper maintenance. Some people use it with success, I jsut never liked the uncertaincy--too much too fast = dead sps. too little too late = brown corals. Water changes 3-4 times a month work wonders even if they are small 5-10% changes.

 

[letoan]

In the reactors 24/7 for me.

 

[vp6799]

Sounds good. Thanks for the info.

I think my phos problem is from the water storage barrel that I use. It's a rubbermaid brute barrel, but it's not the gray utility kind. I have the black one that looks like a regular trash barrel. The ready made water usually stays in there for a week or so.

I might be getting some from overfeeding also. I feed a small pinch twice a day, just enough for the fish to eat.