Fine-tuning recirculation flow through a calcium reactor's media bed directly affects how consistently it dissolves media and how stable your effluent pH stays. The Reef Octopus VarioS Calcium Reactor line brings DC variable-speed pump control to that recirculation, in three single-chamber sizes plus a dual-chamber model.
Why DC Control Matters for Calcium Reactors
A fixed-speed recirculation pump gives you one flow rate to work with; a variable-speed VarioS pump lets you fine-tune recirculation precisely, which translates into more consistent media dissolution and steadier effluent pH than a one-speed setup can offer.
Choosing a Size
- VarioS CR140 — a 5.5-inch chamber with DC variable-speed pump control for fine-tuning recirculation.
- VarioS CR200 — steps up to an 8-inch chamber for larger reef systems, keeping the DC variable-speed pump.
- VarioS CR220 — the largest single-chamber model in the VarioS line, a 9-inch chamber for demanding reef systems.
- VarioS CR3000D — runs two 7-inch reaction chambers in series, giving CO2-charged water a second pass through media for more complete dissolution.
Setup Tips
- Start CO2 injection conservatively and adjust based on effluent pH readings.
- Use the variable-speed pump to fine-tune recirculation rather than leaving it at a single fixed setting.
- Consider the dual-chamber CR3000D for demanding tanks needing more complete media dissolution per pass.
The Reef Octopus VarioS Calcium Reactor line is available at Marine Concept Supply — order online or pick up at our shop in Wheeling, IL. Shop VarioS CR140, CR200, CR220, or CR3000D, and browse more reactors.
