1. Producte acabatview
The Reef Octopus VarioS CR140 is a high-performance 5.5-inch DC Calcium Reactor designed for marine aquarium systems. It features a VarioS 2 pump, offering variable speed control and Apex readiness for advanced integration. Its innovative design incorporates reverse flow and CO2 recirculating mechanisms to maximize efficiency in maintaining stable calcium and alkalinity levels essential for coral growth.
This reactor is engineered for precise control and reliable operation, making it an ideal solution for hobbyists seeking to optimize their reef tank's water chemistry.

Figure 1: The complete Reef Octopus VarioS CR140 Calcium Reactor. This image displays the main reactor chamber, the external VarioS pump, and the associated plumbing. The clear reactor body allows visibility of internal components, while the red and white pump is connected at the base.
2. Informació de seguretat
Please read and understand all safety instructions before operating the Reef Octopus VarioS CR140 Calcium Reactor. Failure to follow these instructions may result in injury or damage to the product or your aquarium system.
- Seguretat elèctrica: Always disconnect power to all aquarium equipment before performing maintenance or handling the reactor. Ensure all electrical connections are dry and away from water. Use a GFCI (Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter) outlet.
- CO2 Safety: Carbon dioxide (CO2) gas is under high pressure. Handle CO2 cylinders and regulators with extreme care. Ensure proper ventilation in the area where the reactor and CO2 system are installed. Never expose CO2 cylinders to direct heat or sunlight.
- Fuites d'aigua: Periodically check all plumbing connections for leaks. Place the reactor in an area where potential leaks will not cause damage to property.
- Nens i animals de companyia: Keep the reactor and all associated components out of reach of children and pets.
- Ús previst: This product is designed for use in marine aquarium systems only. Do not use for any other purpose.
3. Contingut del paquet
Upon unpacking, please verify that all components are present and undamaged. If any parts are missing or damaged, contact your retailer immediately.
- Reef Octopus VarioS CR140 Reactor Body
- VarioS 2 DC Recirculating Pump
- Reactor Lid with CO2 and Water Inlets/Outlets
- Effluent Line and Fittings
- CO2 Input Line and Check Valve
- Media Plates and Sponges
- Manual d'instruccions (aquest document)
4. Configuració i instal·lació
Follow these steps to properly set up your calcium reactor:
- Col·locació: Select a stable, level location for the reactor, preferably in a sump or dedicated equipment area. Ensure there is sufficient space for maintenance and access to connections.
- Muntatge:
- Insert the media plates and sponges into the reactor body.
- Fill the reactor with appropriate calcium reactor media (e.g., crushed coral, aragonite). Do not overfill; leave space for water circulation.
- Secure the reactor lid, ensuring the O-ring is properly seated to prevent leaks.
- Connexió de la bomba: Attach the VarioS 2 DC pump to the reactor's inlet port. Ensure all unions and fittings are hand-tightened securely.
- Connexions d'aigua:
- Connect a feed line from your aquarium's return pump or a dedicated feed pump to the reactor's water inlet. A ball valve on the feed line is recommended for flow control.
- Connect the effluent line from the reactor's outlet to a suitable drain point in your sump or aquarium.
- CO2 Connection:
- Connect a CO2 line from your CO2 regulator (not included) to the reactor's CO2 inlet port.
- Install the provided check valve on the CO2 line to prevent water back-siphoning into your regulator.
- Connexió d'alimentació: Connect the VarioS 2 DC pump to its controller, and then plug the controller into a GFCI-protected electrical outlet. Do not power on yet.
5. Funcionament
Operating the VarioS CR140 involves adjusting water flow, CO2 injection, and monitoring effluent parameters.
- Inici inicial:
- Open the feed line ball valve to allow water to fill the reactor. Ensure the reactor is completely filled and purged of air.
- Once filled, power on the VarioS 2 DC pump. The pump will begin recirculating water within the reactor.
- CO2 Injection:
- Slowly open the needle valve on your CO2 regulator to introduce CO2 gas into the reactor.
- Adjust the CO2 bubble count (bubbles per minute, BPM) according to your system's needs and the reactor's size. A common starting point is 10-20 BPM, but this will vary.
- Effluent Drip Rate:
- Adjust the feed line ball valve to control the effluent drip rate. A slow, consistent drip (e.g., 1-4 drips per second) is typically desired.
- The effluent pH should be monitored. Aim for a pH between 6.5 and 6.8 within the reactor chamber to effectively dissolve the media.
- Seguiment: Regularly test your aquarium's alkalinity (dKH), calcium (Ca), and magnesium (Mg) levels. Adjust CO2 injection and effluent drip rate as needed to maintain stable parameters.
- VarioS Pump Control: The VarioS 2 pump controller allows for speed adjustment. Higher speeds increase water flow within the reactor, which can affect media dissolution. Refer to the VarioS pump manual for detailed control instructions, especially for Apex integration.
6. Manteniment
Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity of your calcium reactor.
- Substitució de suports: Calcium reactor media will slowly dissolve over time. Monitor the media level and replenish or replace it as needed, typically every 6-12 months depending on consumption.
- Reactor Cleaning: Periodically (e.g., every 3-6 months) disassemble the reactor and clean all components, including the reactor body, lid, media plates, and sponges, to remove any detritus or algae buildup. Use a soft brush and warm water.
- Manteniment de la bomba: Clean the VarioS 2 pump regularly (e.g., every 3-6 months) to prevent calcium deposits or debris from affecting its performance. Disassemble the pump and clean the impeller and volute with a mild acid solution (e.g., vinegar) if necessary. Rinse thoroughly with fresh water.
- Inspecció de la junta tòrica: Inspect all O-rings for wear or damage during cleaning. Replace any worn O-rings to prevent leaks. Apply a thin layer of silicone grease to O-rings before reassembly.
- CO2 System Check: Regularly check your CO2 cylinder pressure and regulator for proper function. Ensure there are no leaks in the CO2 lines.
7. Solució De Problemes
This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your calcium reactor.
| Problema | Causa possible | Solució |
|---|---|---|
| Low Calcium/Alkalinity Output | Insufficient CO2 injection; low reactor pH; media depletion; insufficient water flow. | Increase CO2 bubble rate; check CO2 regulator and cylinder; replenish media; increase effluent drip rate; clean pump. |
| Leaks from Reactor | Loose fittings; damaged O-rings; improper lid seating. | Tighten all connections; inspect and replace O-rings; ensure lid is seated correctly. |
| La bomba no funciona | No power; clogged impeller; faulty pump/controller. | Check power connection and GFCI; clean pump impeller; contact support if pump is faulty. |
| Excessive CO2 Bubbles in Sump | Too much CO2 injection; insufficient media dissolution; effluent pH too high. | Reduce CO2 bubble rate; ensure reactor pH is optimal (6.5-6.8); check media level. |
8. Especificacions
| Model | CR140 |
| Reactor Diameter | 5.5 polzades |
| Dimensions (L x A x A) | 12.2" x 9.1" x 22.9" (Product Description) / 25.3" x 15.7" x 12.6" (Package Dimensions) |
| Tipus de bomba | VarioS 2 DC Recirculating Pump (Variable Speed, Apex Ready) |
| Pes de l'article | 12.62 lliures |
| Fabricant | Reef Octopus |
| Característiques | Reverse flow and CO2 Recirculating Design |
9. Garantia i Suport
For specific warranty information regarding your Reef Octopus VarioS CR140 Calcium Reactor, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Reef Octopus weblloc web. Els termes i condicions de la garantia poden variar segons la regió i el distribuïdor.
For technical support, troubleshooting assistance beyond this manual, or to inquire about replacement parts, please contact Reef Octopus customer service or your authorized dealer. Contact information can typically be found on the manufacturer's weblloc web o al rebut de compra.
Fabricant: Reef Octopus





