Question on using Phosban and reactor for the first time

[pammy]

Hey all. Took the advise form this board and bought a TwoLittleFishies Phosphate reactor 150 and some phosban. I've read a few notes here that suggested using less phosban than they suggest, and swap it out sooner. The phosban says to use 50grams for 50gallons of water and it doesn't need to be changed for a couple of months or when your phosphates start climbing, but the reactor says not to use less than 130grams and not more than 200grams. So, how little phosban can I use? Should I use 25 grams and change it out every two weeks? 50 grams and change it out monthly? More? Less? My tank is 53 gallons with a 7 gallon sump, and my phosphates are testing at .1 with Salifert test kit.

Also, I bought a MaxiJet400 for the reactor. I know the pump has to be in the sump, but is it easier if I have the reactor outside of the sump to make changing out the phosban easier, or is it just safer to have it in the sump in case it leaks? I have room for it in the sump, and next to the sump inside the stand.

Thanks!
Pam

[Phurst]

If you can, I'd fit it in the sump. Mine have leaked from time to time (always my fault), and I feel better knowing they're on the wet side of the glass

I think they reccomend no less than 130 grams so there is enough matterial for the bed to fluidize propperly. I went straight in using a full can of Phosban and didn't have any trouble. I like that I don't have to change it that often.

Just make sure you rinse it. I know the instructions tell you to rinse it too, but do it REALLY well.

[pammy]

Gotcha. Thanks Phurst!
Pam