Aquaforest Air scrubber help prevent harmful fluctuations caused by low pH when used correctly
Reef aquariums are intricate and often delicate ecosystems that thrive on stability. Daily fluctuations in carbon dioxide (CO2) levels from normal activities like breathing, having pets, and cooking can impact the aquarium’s pH. The higher the concentration of CO2 that the skimmer pulls in, the more the water becomes acidic, which can cause a drop in pH, unstable dKH levels, and significantly hinder coral calcification. Over time, this may lead to stressed corals and potentially the loss of coral. When the lights are on, photosynthesis helps stabilize the aquarium’s pH, but at night, the pH tends to drop as oxygen demand increases. This issue is particularly noticeable during autumn and winter when windows are often closed and rooms are less ventilated. That is the perfect time to start using the Aquaforest AF Air Scrubber to help maintain a stable reef aquarium.
The Aquaforest AF Air Scrubber reactor and its media work effectively to prevent harmful fluctuations caused by low pH when utilized properly. The reactor is constructed from high-quality white and transparent acrylic, and its modern design allows it to be placed either outside or conveniently inside the cabinet. Functionality was a key consideration during the development of this product, ensuring that the AF Air Scrubber reactor is easy to assemble and disassemble for servicing while maintaining proper airflow throughout the CO2 scrubbing media.
One outstanding feature of the Aquaforest AF Air Scrubber reactor is the base where the CO2 filter rests. Inside, there are three cut-to-size sponges designed to be soaked in RO water to moisten the air and enhance media performance. For optimal results, the sponges should always remain moist. If they dry out before the media needs changing, simply remove the base from the top of the reactor, soak the sponges in RO water, and reassemble. Lab tests indicate that this can significantly extend the life of the media, making it a cost-effective choice for reef enthusiasts.
Moving to the body of the reactor, the design pulls CO2-filled air through the sponge layer at the bottom, channeling it up through a grid to ensure maximum CO2 removal before entering the skimmer or reef aquarium. The media is protected by special dust-absorbing sponges at both the top and bottom of the reactor. The reactor lid features a cap with a smart twist closure for quick and easy access to the interior. To ensure proper airflow suction, a flap and seal have been incorporated to create a bottom-to-top airflow. As a result, the color-changing media is used from the bottom to the top, making it easy to see when it is time to replace it. It is advisable to replace the media before it completely changes color. Additionally, the outer part of the lid includes a 10 mm/⅜” hose connection, allowing the reactor to be linked to a protein skimmer. Within a few days, you will start to notice the media working, and the pH will increase as CO2 is absorbed.
According to our tests, the Aquaforest AF Air Scrubber can raise the pH by approximately 0.2 to 0.4 degrees, stabilizing it within the range of 8.0 to 8.4. We recommend using the Aquaforest AF Air Scrubber in conjunction with the Aquaforest AF Air Scrubber Media cartridge for the most effective removal of CO2 from the air drawn in by the skimmer.
Key features:
- Reduces CO2 while increasing the pH
- Stabilizes day/night pH levels
- Prevents sudden dKH changes
- Large capacity – 2.3 liters
- Innovative technology boosting the media’s lifespan and efficiency
- Compatible with a variety of skimmers with a 10 mm/⅜” hose
- Easy to use
- High-quality materials
Dimensions:
Height: 35.5 cm + 3.5 cm (connectors) / 14″ + 1.4″
Width: 15.5 cm / 6.1″
Important:
The filter does not include a CO2 absorbing cartridge in the set. The pH of the water changes throughout the day, so measurements should always be taken at the same time each day. If used media is left inside the reactor for too long, it can change color again but will no longer effectively remove CO2 from the air. When changing out the media, it is best to wear gloves and perform the task in a well-ventilated area. Inside, you can utilize AF Air Scrubber Media together with Carbon.