[rvitko]

Yes, it is a balancing act and the only way to simplify it is if the reactor is pH Controlled so it only turns on when the tank pH is above 8, over time you can work that up to 8.1 (with a better controller 8.15). Then when the dispenser comes on, pH goes up, and the reactor turns on. Even then achieving stability takes 2-3 months but is much improved after 4 weeks. pH in seawater is almost entirely based on the carbonate equilibrium and with a high CO2, you have to drive out or reduce some CO2 and raise the carbonate hardness to get to the level you want. It isn't going to be an instant process, especially if you are doing it manually and also need to manage drip rate and bubble count. Eventually when you get the equilibrium right, the pH should stay steady between 8.0-8.2.