Reef aquariums are complex and often fragile ecosystems that thrive on stability to succeed.
Daily fluctuations in carbon dioxide (CO2) levels in the air caused by normal breathing, pets, and cooking can all impact the aquarium’s pH. The higher the concentration of CO2 the skimmer pulls in, the greater the acidification of the water, often resulting in a drop in pH, unstable dKH, and significantly inhibited coral calcification. Overtime, this could lead to stressed corals’ and even the loss of that coral. When the lights are on, photosynthesis is occurring to help stabilize the aquarium’s pH. At night, however, the pH drops as oxygen demand increases. This is especially true during autumn and winter, when windows are often closed and rooms are less ventilated. This is the ideal time to begin using the Aquaforest AF Air Scrubber to support a stable reef aquarium.
One remarkable feature of the Aquaforest AF Air Scrubber reactor is the base on which the CO2 filter rests. Inside, there are three cut-to-size sponges which are designed to be soaked in RO water to moisten the air and improve media performance. For optimal performance, the sponges in the base should always be moist. If they dry out before needing to change the media, simply remove the base from the top of the reactor, soak the sponges in RO and reassemble. Lab tests indicate this can significantly extend the life of the media over a greater period of time making it a cost effective piece of reefing equipment.
Moving on to the body of the reactor, by designing the unit to pull CO2 filled air through the sponge layer at the bottom, the air is channeled up through a grid making sure the highest amount of CO2 can be removed before going into the skimmer or reef aquarium. The media is protected between a layer of special dust absorbing sponges at the top and bottom of the reactor. On the lid of the reactor, there is a cap with a smart-twist closure allowing for quick and easy access to the interior of the reactor. To ensure proper airflow suction, a flap and seal has been installed to guarantee bottom to top airflow. As a result, the color changing media is gradually used from the bottom to the top making it easy to see when it is time to replace the media. It is recommended to replace the media before the color completely changes. On the outer part of the lid, there is a 10 mm / 3/8” hose connection, which connects the reactor to a protein skimmer. Within a few days, signs of the media working will be apparent and pH will increase as CO2 is being absorbed.
According to our tests, the Aquaforest AF Air Scrubber can raise the pH ~0.2 – 0.4 degrees and its stabilization in the range of 8.0 – 8.4. We recommend using the Aquaforest AF Air Scrubber together with the Aquaforest AF Air Scrubber Media cartridge. This configuration ensures 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 variety of skimmers with a 10 mm / 3/8” 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 contain a CO2 absorbing cartridge in the set.
- The pH of the water changes in the daily rhythm, and therefore measurements should always be performed at the same time of the day.
- If used up media is left inside the reactor too long, it can change color again, but it is no longer effective at removing CO2 from the air.
- When changing out the media, it is best to wear gloves and do it in a well-ventilated space.
- Inside you can use AF Air Scrubber Media together with Carbon.
Shipping
How is my order shipped and what does it cost?
Orders are shipped either by Courier [currently FedEX Ground] or Postal Service --- the choice is yours!
For delivery by Courier, you pay the actual charges based on a 1 kG package [2.2 lbs] shipped via ground service, plus a nominal $1.00 service charge to cover the cost of insurance and packing materials. We pay any additional charges.
For Postal Service (your best value), shipping on orders under $100.00 is $13.95 to most locations in Canada, exceptions noted below. For orders between $100.00 and $150.00 the rate is $9.95, for orders between $150.00 and $200.00 the rate is just $4.95 and for orders over $200.00 shipping is FREE. The more you order the more you save! The delivery standard for this service is between 1 to 7 business days between all major centers.
NOTE: Additional Shipping Charges apply to orders shipped to the NWT, YK, NU and some rural or remote locations in Canada as well as on over sized or heavy items indicated by the - Additional Shipping symbol.
The flat rate shipping cost used as well as our contribution towards that cost, is usually sufficient to cover the cost of shipping however if you are located in a remote or air stage area, additional shippings charges may apply. In those circumstances we'll contact you regarding any addtional cost so you can decide whether to proceed with your order or not. Otherwise we'll just get the order in its way to you.
When will my order be shipped?
On weekdays, in-stock merchandise is shipped the same day if received by 2:00 pm EST. Orders received after that, or on weekends or holidays, are shipped the next business day.
Do you ship to the US or to other International destinations?
Currently we are only shipping within Canada.
Returns
What if I want to return an item?
Should you find it necessary to return an item, please call us first. All returns should be properly packaged to avoid damage and should include all original boxes and paperwork to receive a refund, replacement or credit. Shipping fees are not refundable, unless, of course, you are returning defective merchandise or merchandise we sent in error.
What do I do if a product breaks or doesn't preform as promised?
Keep all warranties and owner's manuals you receive with your merchandise. In the event an item becomes defective or just doesn't live up to your expectations, please refer to the warranty information you received for proper handling procedures.