Mrches

I recommend Blue Ribbon Koi & Marine (BRK) in Catharpin, VA, http://www.blueribbonkoi.com/ They have a great stock of corals, fish, and supplies. Staff is knowledgeable and friendly.

I have my reactor plumbed off a tee from the return pump. I use to control flow with a needle type valve, but it kept clogging. Now I control flow with an inline 1/4 inch ball valve (Mur-lok valve) and no longer have issues with blockage. Every 6 months when I pull my reactor out to re-fill or service, I take the time to clean all tubes and valves to mitigate clogs.

Very nice.

Paragon_32's skimmer is awesome. A real nice piece of engineering; a good deal of thought was put into the production of the skimmer... Definitely impressive and inspiring. I too am interested in hearing how it holds up under 24/7 operations. I love your PVC adapter, and good recommendation about materials used. Probably a good idea to understand the different materials available and to plan accordingly with the application of the 3D print. Everywhere I turn, I cannot help but come up with use cases for a printer. And Thingiverse has a very extensive collection of "Thingies". I ran across this adjustable float switch bracket, https://www.thingiverse.com/thing:1070622 . Can use some small modifications, but another great piece of work. I do not even have to try to justify the purchase, the ability to design and create is endless...Oh the "things you can think". I need to find time for another hobby. Fortunately I can eventually dovetail this with my reefing hobby. More research and planning is needed, I may be reaching out for advice...many thanks.

Thanks for providing the brief description of the 3D process. You did a great job bringing the flow together and making it easy to understand. While I knew 3D printers were available and affordable, I have not taken the time to research the technology or think about utility. I went to thingiverse.com and was introduced to the possibilities. Brackets, clamps, skimmer parts, pump parts...Fabricate replacements for broken components for reefing and the "real world". The workflow seems simple enough, but I know better. A learning curve on the system and software, designing a component to spec will take some playing around. I will be doing more research...Definitely something I will be doing. If you don't mind, what printer do you have and what materials have you used. Your thread has peaked my interest. This is something I can find use for...will definitely be doing more research.

Now I need a 3D printer.

Hopefully there was no loss of critters or corals. I had blankets over my tanks for a few hours, then had to hook up the generator. Calcium reactor can be intimidating until you get it going. I would first get it running without turning the C02 on, just to get feel of things. Then when ready, take baseline of Ca, Alk; stop your current dosing and turn on C02. Adjust as necessary over the next week or so. There are many folks here that have a great deal of experience. When you are ready start a new thread, WAMAS members are more than happy to share experiences.

For some reason the link will not post...google this; BRStv Investigates: What is the best way to cure dry live rock?

Will not post entire link....google this ; BRStv Investigates: What is the best way to cure dry live rock?

Typically I use a natural method, saltwater, heater, power head, skimmer and time. But BRS has a great video comparing methods to reduce initial organics, link below...shows great results with bleach in the first week. I think I will try bleach next time. https://www.bulkreefsupply.com/video/view/brstv-investigates-what-is-the-best-way-to-cure-dry-live-rock/

I have had good success with soaking the rock in saltwater, with a heater, circulation pump for flow, and use an old skimmer to pull crud out. Keep it in the dark, top off water as needed, and replace half water every 2 weeks. Typically cured 8-12 weeks...depending on type of rock. I think Pukani takes longer. I have kept chemicals and such out of the process...time and natural processes seem to work fine. BRS has a great video, link below...I think I will try bleach next time. https://www.bulkreefsupply.com/video/view/brstv-investigates-what-is-the-best-way-to-cure-dry-live-rock/

Looking good Vu...you need to get that calcium reactor online.

I originally started with arches, which was great for a short time. I eventually started populating with corals and found that I needed different levels of rock, terraced, to show off corals and provide ample light for growth. I spent a good deal of time rearranging landscape to support my coral addiction (Haahaa). Rearranging landscape in an operational system can be difficult at times and can lead to a small cycle.

I have had great experience with Live Aquaria and Divers Den, Blue Zoo Aquatics, Sustainable Aquatics (large selection of clowns), and even had good experience with fish from Unique Corals.

Sorry to hear that. Water seems to always find a way. My experience is a wet vac, towels, a fan, and a plan to reduce future risk.