How to plumb calcium reactor off sump return

[smokinreefer]

hey,

i'm trying to figure out how to plumb my calcium reactor input/feed (1/4") from my sump return manifold (1" pvc)

- I gather I need some type of reducer to get down to 1/4"
- a 1/4" quick connect valve (to control the flow rate)

the 1/4" valve is easy enough, HD carries the JG type quick connect ones.

but is there such a thing as a 1"pvc to 1/4" quick connect reducer?

thanks.

[BlueTang<3]

I went 1 inch to 3/4 inch reducer, then from the 3/4 inch reducer put gate valve to accurately control flow. Put a 3/4 to 1/2 inch adapter off that and then threaded one of the 1/4 inch quick connect valves into that. Get it got it good

If I get energetic I can take a picture

[mark]

I just threaded a JG fitting into a cap

[WarDog]

Try to find a fitting called a 'bushing'. Not sure if HD has them, but most plumbing suppliers should (like Noble, {Lougheed at Blue Mtn}).
Mark has one in his picture just before the valve. They take up far less room than a few reducers in line.
Don't think they make a 1" to 1/4", but you could go 1" to 1/2" and 1/2" to 1/4" fer sure.

[Ryanerickson]

I tried doing this same thing run my ca reactor with my return I only used the 1/4 jg valve to controll flow. It did not work just no control either to fast or too slow flow I would assume the larger valve would help with that issue. By the way it sure looks like a ball valve not gate. I run mine off a syphon now works good for me more control it still not perfect Peristaltic pump is idea but more money.

[smokinreefer]

Thanks for all the suggestions and tips.
I'll try make it out to a plumbing store soon.

Thinking, put in a bushing, gate valve, another bushing down to 1/4" and then a JG type connector...

[TimT]

I used bushings and had a JG fitting that screwed into the bushing. Worked fine for years. The JG ball valves are not the best for fine adjustments. I used to run my reactor wide open so it wasn't an issue. Now I don't run a reactor and I sleep better at night... LoL.

Cheers,
Tim

[StirCrazy]

the only issue is by using a ball valve you don't have a very good adjustability as its oening is not linear, try find a "flow controle valve" which idealy would be a needle valve or in worst case a diaphram or gate valve (last two not really flow control valves but still better than using aball valve)

Steve

[smokinreefer]

Ok so I used a bushing to drop to 1/2"
Then threaded in a 1/2 to 1/4" quick connect

Now all I need is the valve...
I have a JG ball valve, but from all the input here, looks like what I need is a needle valve.

Now I've sourced out some, but all from the US. And these things aren't cheap!
$20-25USD +shipping...

Any ideas for a local source?
I'll call Sheret tomorrow.

[Aquattro]

I use a JG ball valve, no issues at all. Output from the reactor is controlled via an irrigation drip valve, and that provides more than enough control.