Problem setting up Ca Rx

[d3rryc]

Aquasport, there is no controller. I'm measuring the pH of the effluent rather than hooking the solenoid up to a controller, per the instructions here (see "Running Continuously", bullet #11). Please let the thread get back to my issue, which is, why does my CO2 feed stop bubbling? I dial in a certain bubble rate per minute using the needle valve, and that rate drops to zero over time. Erik suggested that I use a rubber band to keep the needle valve knob from moving. I'm hoping others will chime in with some more thoughts.

[Bill S]

Aquasport, there is no controller. I'm measuring the pH of the effluent rather than hooking the solenoid up to a controller, per the instructions here (see "Running Continuously", bullet #11). Please let the thread get back to my issue, which is, why does my CO2 feed stop bubbling? I dial in a certain bubble rate per minute using the needle valve, and that rate drops to zero over time. Erik suggested that I use a rubber band to keep the needle valve knob from moving. I'm hoping others will chime in with some more thoughts.

The rubber band is a good bandaid solution - it keeps the valve from turning once set. However, my experience with these needle valves is that when they get old, they just don't work all that well - especially if they have had any contact with salt water during their life.

I know it's not what you want to hear, but you are playing with fire here. A brand new pH controller/solenoid setup is under $200. Way less than you are likely to lose if your reactor melts down. And you get a brand new needle valve with that.

[CoryDude]

d3rryc, I ran my ca reactor w/your method for almost ten years. It's a pain to monitor it, but it does work. I know everyone says you need a ph controller, but I never invested in one either. If you monitor your calcium demand, get your effluent and bubble rates dialed in correctly, then things should be pretty stable. I'd recommend looking for a new regulator/solonoid if the rubber band idea doesn't work. Marine depot had a basic model that was under $100. Best of luck.