What are biopellets?
Biopellets are a biodegradable polymer that “feed” beneficial bacteria. Beneficial bacteria keeps nitrate levels in check. Biopellets are placed in a reactor. Within the reactor, the pellets tumble around and biodegrade. Eventually, beneficial bacteria populates the tank.
What quantity of biopellets will I need for my tank?
500ml per 100 gallons of net water volume.
How can I tell if I have overfilled my reactor?
Put no more pellets in your reactor than can be easily fluidized (without clumping)
Can I overdose or harm my tank from excessive biopellet use?
No, though adherence to the previous note is strongly encouraged.
Are there any special considerations for where I should put my reactor in the sump?
Make sure the effluent of the reactor exits into a high flow zone of the sump to ensure the bacteria is dispersed and that the water is properly re-oxygenated before entering the main system.
Are there any benefits to using a Vertex media reactor with the biopellets?
Yes. The Vertex reactor is specifically designed with a 1/2” input-output. This contrasts with most reactors having a 3/8” input-output. The difference is very important in the capacity for the reactor to readily fluidize the media—the larger input-output makes the Vertex reactor much more effective for this purpose.
How often must the biopellets be replaced?
Depending on your system, you can expect to replace your biopellets every 4 to 6 months.
How much flow will it take to fluidize 1000ml of pellets in a Vertex UF 15/ 20 media reactor?
There are many variables involved with this question which must be considered. It is important to note the pressure rating of your pump, whether it’s a passive or direct feed, etc. That said, the reactors will handle 150 to 500gph. A rough estimate is about 100-250 gallons per hour for every 500ml.