Plumbing a Calcium Reactor

[Modo]

I'm plumbing my new 90g and need a little input on incorporating my Calcium Reactor into it.

I want to Tee off my main return line to feed the reactor. I'm using a 3/4" main line and will reduce down to a 1/2" at the branch of the tee to the reactor. Then from this 1/2" reduce down to a 1/4" John Guest and flexible tubing that connects to my reactor.

Now I will need to reduce this flow and will use a needle valve so I can fine tune. My guestion is would it be best to have a 1/2" needle valve to reduce the flow prior to the 1/4" tubing OR use a 1/4" John Guest needle valve after the reduction?

The price of both are about the same more or less. So, I'm really thinking what would be best for the actual reduction of flow vs. the pressure and reliability.

 

[jorge1]

The small difference in size does not matter. Either size will serve you well. US Plastic sells nice needle valves.

Jorge

 

[myreef]

If your reactor has the effluent drip valve at the exit of your reactor, this will in essence slow the flow down form the "tee'd" portion of your input. I would put a valve, probably the JG at the inlet for maintenance...so you can shut it off and not have to worry about leaks....

 

[myreef]

Oops double post.