Phosphate Reactor Yay/Nay

[Reeferer]

I just got done cycling my 54 corner. I have a 20gal fuge and 30 gal sump in the basment. I have got green algea everywhere! I used a 3 stage RODI unit to fill my tank for the cycling. I also filledd a 55gal barrel using the 3 stage and made saltwater for water changes. I made my 1st water change 2 days ago.

I have since purchased a 5 stage RODI unit b/c my tds is 450 out of the tap (Wilmington). I was told that I should run a phospate reactor or phosphate/carbon cannister. They run about $75 from Bulk Reef Supply. However, I do not know very much about them and would like a little feed back from some more experienced reefers.

Thanks in advance!

Bill

 

[pillowfish]

I think the cost and benefits need to weighed against what you plan on keeping in your tank. If you are just doing FOWLR, I wouldn't bother, evne with a softy tank I probably wouldn't either, quite a few species thrive under "less than pristine water". If you were planning an SPS dominated tank or a heavy bio-load then GFO may be the way to go.

I run the 2LF phosban reactor and find that using good GFO with a mini-maxi 404(? I believe) hanging of the sump. I have noticed a difference in water clarity and I have no detectable Po4. Running carbon in combination with the GFO has been mixed results for me. I usually only run carbon if the tank needs a little help from either my lack of maintenance or if something goes wrong and I need to clean the water ASAP. JMO, it works on my 55g.

But the GFO is also quite expensive, BRS does sell it in bulk for much cheaper than a LFS. And I believe I only paid $20ish dollars for the reactor itself(single chamber). Pump probably cost me around $10.