reactor

yes they help
my phosban reactor has gotten rid of all the red algae and 99% of the hair algae
They are very simple to build I know someone who built one for less than $10 out of PVC andit works just a well as one you buy in the store
Shaun

 

I would say you don't haft to have one, but it would help.

 

Well depends on what your Phosphate reading are. Have you tested them.
Phosphate is general added to your system from NOT using a good RO/DI with 0 TDS, over feeding or using bad salt.
I would test your phosphate levels first but in general a very high percentage of successful reefers use them. Doesn't mean you have to have one, but if you are having any trouble with Algae it may (or maybe not) be the solution.
Keep in mind the media (GFO) is expensive.

 

not to jump ship here, but what exactly does a calcium/reactor do???

 

Just to make sure this makes sense I will explain both since they are two different things. This thread originated talking about a phosphate reactor, which removes phosphate from your reefs water. It does this by passing your water through granular Ferric Oxide (Rust) which happens to remove phosphate.
A Calcium Reactor adds calcium and Alkalinity to your water by reducing the pH of the water coming into the reactor by adding CO2. The lower pH water then passes through the reactor dissolving the calcium media that is inside hence adding the calcium to the water.
Hope this helps.