I'm looking for suggestions on setting up some automation on my two tanks. Normally they are fine, but sometimes they get too hot (82), which is when we turn on the fans, but if the temp drops (78) and we forget to turn them off the water temp drops (74) even with both heaters working. I'm looking at a suggestion on which system I should get to help turn the fans off/on based on the water temp, and maybe turn off the heaters as well in case one goes crazy (had that happen once). We don't get big swings, but enough that I'm convinced it is time to make the investment. I have to buy two setups (display + frag tank), so cost is a bit of a factor. I'm thinking of the Reefkeeper Lite + SL1 vs. Neptune Systems AquaController Apex Jr w/ Display & Temperature Probe. Any suggestions? I've never paid attention to this, so starting from ground zero.
Reefkeeper vs. Apex
- Thread starter djam
- Start date
This is the same problem I was having, I just recently purchased Apex JR and its working awesome for me so far. I only need to add a couple things to it later so that why I just went with the JR, im only planning on adding PH module and probe, Then the wxm module for my MP40s and a EB8 so I can control my lights and ditche the timers. So yeah It works really well and I love that I can add to it later. From everything I have read Apex is the way to go. Plus the Apex fusion is bad *** I can see my temps from anywhere with my phone or other PC.
As a reefer that has had both RKL and now a full Apex I would get the full apex. I can guarantee in a few months time will be kicking yourself for not doing it to begin with. Also with the apex, depending on how far away the two tanks are from each other (500 feet or less) 1 controller can control both tanks you just need separate eb8's and probes and a long enough cable. Set up on both controllers can be a pain but fusion makes the Apex pretty easy.
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djam,
For what you need them to do, either will work for you. I am currently using a RKL and I have it timing my lights, heater, and pump. I went this route because I didnt have $500 at the time to drop on a controller. I am happy with the RKL but if I had the money I would go with the APEX standard. Buy expensive once and no need to upgrade later.
Good luck!
For what you need them to do, either will work for you. I am currently using a RKL and I have it timing my lights, heater, and pump. I went this route because I didnt have $500 at the time to drop on a controller. I am happy with the RKL but if I had the money I would go with the APEX standard. Buy expensive once and no need to upgrade later.
Good luck!
I have recently picked up a RKE and have these hooked up to the unit: skimmer, return pump, heater, carbon reactor, fan, ati t5 (channel 1, 2 and fan), and ReefBrite led. I'm very please with it performance. I have heard many good things abt the Apex, but the price is not justify to my pocket.
Good luck with ur decision and share us ur feedbacks.
Good luck with ur decision and share us ur feedbacks.
For what you want to do, you should be fine with an RKL. The only reason I say that, is because if you want to upgrade in the future, you will be very limited with an Apex Jr. The RKL is cheaper and will have more upgradability. When it comes to programming, the RK and Apex are very similar and essentially can do the same thing. If control through the internet is important to you, then you should go with the Apex.
Where the Apex is years ahead of RK is with Apex fusion. RK's net monitoring and control is a joke, and is incredibly difficult to setup, I still cant get mine to work. I like the myreef software, but you can only use it while hooked up through usb. If they figure out how to run myreef through the net module, I wold consider keeping mine.
I'm currently running an RKE with all the bells and whistles. I'm about to upgrade tanks and am considering switching to Apex due to the fact I am not around home as much anymore and would like to control my tank remotely. Other than the remote access, I have been happy with the RK setup. I am able to do almost as much as an Apex Gold for considerably less money.
Where the Apex is years ahead of RK is with Apex fusion. RK's net monitoring and control is a joke, and is incredibly difficult to setup, I still cant get mine to work. I like the myreef software, but you can only use it while hooked up through usb. If they figure out how to run myreef through the net module, I wold consider keeping mine.
I'm currently running an RKE with all the bells and whistles. I'm about to upgrade tanks and am considering switching to Apex due to the fact I am not around home as much anymore and would like to control my tank remotely. Other than the remote access, I have been happy with the RK setup. I am able to do almost as much as an Apex Gold for considerably less money.
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I have heard only good things about the apex, but I bought a RLK because of my limited needs and cost. It works well once you figure out how to set it up, which is not intuitive despite their claims. There customer service is non existent. They claim they have improved their customer service, but I am skeptical.
