Digital Aquatics

ReefKeeper Lite Basic

88% Recommend this to a friend (104 of 118)

118 Reviews

$129.99

SKU: 205500

In Stock: 36

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Why does BRS recommend this?

The Digital Aquatics Reef Keeper Lite is a great little aquarium controller that makes programming very straight forward and easy. The options are somewhat limited compared to other controllers on the market, however if you are looking for a simple, easy to use controller, with the availability to be expanded upon and do not need internet connection, the Reef Keeper Lite units are some of the best.

Digital Aquatics ReefKeeper Lite or RKL comes in 3 different levels. They are small expandable and perfect for nano tanks, beginners, and everyone looking for a mid level controller. ReefKeeper Lite's are easily the best value controllers on the market. See below for quick compare chart of the differences between each RKL.

ReefKeeper Lite Features

Head Unit
1 PB4 power bar (4 total outlets)
Digital Aquatics Temperature probe

The ReefKeeper Lite or RKL is an all new completely redesigned controller from Digital Aquatics. These midlevel controllers come in three different levels. Check our quick compare table below for the differences between each. Please note that some of the advanced modules and features of the ReefKeeper Elite are not available for the RKL.

	Head Unit	Power Bar 4	System Lab X	System Lab 2	Programming Coupler	Temperature Probe	pH Probe	System Interface Device	Net Interface Module
Quick Compare - ReefKeeper
Lite Basic	x	x			x	x		x
Lite Salinity	x	x		x	x	x		x
Lite Plus	x	x (2)	x		x	x	x	x
Lite Net	x	x (2)	x		x	x	x	x	x
Elite Plus	x	x (2)	x			x	x (w/calib. packets)	x
Elite Net	x	x (2)	x			x	x (w/calib. packets)	x	x

Digital Aquatics ReefKeeper Lite (RKL) Features

Expandability: Every RKL can interface with up to 4 modules in almost any configuration.
Data reporting: The RKL can report the min, max and average over the last hour for all in and outputs.
Improved 5 button interface: All ReefKeeper Lite's have a 5 button interface. Traditional entry level controllers feature only 3 button interfaces.
16 dedicated timers all with day of the week capability
Audible and visual feedback
16 dedicated alarms
New control functions: Improved controller, multi-timer, light, lunar, and pump controls
Free software upgrades: ReefKeeper software upgrades from Digital Aquatics is free and easy to install via USB cord
MyReef software requires Windows Operating system
Independently programmable night mode allows moonlights and pumps to be adjusted in the evening times
Wavemaker: ReefKeeper Lite's have two wavemaker cycles that control separate pumps to simulate wave motion. Each cycle can be timed and the cycles can be turned off during night mode to give a calming effect.
Programmable standby feedback mode can be set from 1 to 59 minutes during which the ReefKeeper Lite shuts down selected powerheads and pumps. This allows for calm feeding condition and is useful for conducting maintenance.
Head unit easily mounts in a number of professional custom looking ways.
Splash proof face plate
Internal battery backup keeps time and settings of the ReefKeeper Lite safe for years. Power outages will not require the adjustments that other light timers need after power is restored.
Simple menu configuration has an simple interface that allows for easy setup and navigation.

RKL Users Guide

RKL Application Guide

RKL Quick Start Web

Dead on arrival By David Tag on 3/17/2018

David Tag wouldn't recommend this product to a friend

Purchased this to replace the BM-T01 doses I bought a few days prior. The BM-T01 was dead on arrival (clock problem) so I overnighted the reefkeeper lite and a couple of BRS dosing pumps ($50 shipping). The dosing pumps worked great but guess what, the reefkeeper lite was also dead on arrival. The clock wouldn't run no matter what I did. Save yourself the money, stress, and time - get a couple of BRS pumps throw them on a digital outlet timer.
Great results using this controller. By Jay on 1/1/2018

Jay would recommend this product to a friend

Love this thing. Keeps my temp spot on and the safety alerts and are nice feature.
Best 100 bucks spent By Zach on 12/7/2017

Zach would recommend this product to a friend

This is one of the best purchases I have made for my reef while I wait to get an Apex 2016. I use this primarily to control two finnex titanium heaters. It keeps my temperature very accurate in the tank and consistent which is important for my corals.

It really isn't hard to figure out how to use it. But there are plenty of youtube videos on how to program it. I think even BRS has one available. Definitely worth the money.
Good enough By Richard on 11/20/2017

Richard would recommend this product to a friend

If you are looking for something cheap to control heaters and simple powerheads, then this is a winner. Not as nice as a $700 apex, but if you only want to have some simple redundancy then this works quite well for the $100 you will spend on it.
Easy to use controller By Kenm on 8/27/2017

Kenm would recommend this product to a friend

This control works great and is an affordable solution. I use it to controll my heater, chiller, and 2 brs 1.1 ml dosing pumps. You can't beat it for the price.
Saved me! By Wendy on 5/16/2017

Wendy would recommend this product to a friend

I was CONSTANTLY dickering with my heat. Always had trouble. Live in WY. This was the best $ I've spent. Wish I'd have done it 4 years ago when this tank went up.
difficult to set up By Jack on 4/23/2017

Jack wouldn't recommend this product to a friend

I wanted something simple to use so a heater failure wouldn't cook my corals.This product came with no instructions and made no sense to use.After several hours I got it to work.It died after 6 months
Good product By RobertP on 12/24/2016

RobertP would recommend this product to a friend

I like this controller. It works as advertised. I did not give it a 5 because I had to use my PC to set the temperature to start with and cannot figure out how to change the temp setting without it. Guess I will have to check the website because it didnt come with instructions.
It should have a dimmer for the display in low light or after not being used.
Great entry level controler By Adam on 12/14/2016

Adam would recommend this product to a friend

If you have ever had a heater fail and kill your precious wet pets and corals...it stops now with this reefkeeper. This is by far the cheaper option to restocking your beautiful reef setup when your heater fails, and it will. Have had this up and running for a few months and it has already saved me hundreds. This reefkeeper saved my setup from a what could of been a devastating turn of events when it shut off the port on my malfunctioning heater. It took some time for me to realize that the heater wasnt working properly since the controller would just turn it on to heat and shut it off when the desired temp was reached. I also have a fan running on the power bar so it kicks on when the temp gets above my desired setting...works great!

The only down side is getting started and trying to figure out how to make it do all these wonderful things. The instructions at best are pretty horrible and will take you an afternoon to get it right. I still give it 5 stars due to the fact that once you get used to useing it...it gets easier. It may not have alot of fancy other things like WIfi email alerts or the other fancy bells and whistles, but it works great for what it does have right out of the box.

So if you are looking for a moderately priced controller that works great, this is a great option.
Great Product By Darryl on 10/15/2016

Darryl would recommend this product to a friend

very pleased with this product .
it did take a bit to set up but after an hour had it hooked up and newest software uploaded and it has been running great since.
i also have slv2 salinity which is almost spot on will be ordering the Archon wireless to go with this soon.
Great Controller if your willing to spend some time setting it up. By Sean on 8/30/2016

Sean would recommend this product to a friend

It really is a great device.

It did take me a few hours learning how to set it up properly, however, once you get the hang of it, it becomes very easy to use.

After owning it for a few weeks, I can almost use it with my eyes closed.

I really like what this product can do!
Much to be desired By Jeremy on 6/28/2016

Jeremy wouldn't recommend this product to a friend

Well...first things first. The directions for this I think as stated by others are WAY harder than they need to be. Go ahead and plan on sitting down for at least an hour or 2 figuring it all out. The software SUCKS. Good luck finding information on how to install the software, its not the easiest thing to navigate thru. Also there are the options for 8.0 and 8.2 or w/e it is now...but it does not tell you what and why you need the different ones really. You have to calibrate the temp probe which I think is stupid...you would think it would come already calibrated. I'm not even getting started yet. There CUSTOMER SERVICE (BAD WORD) SUCKS SO BAD! LIKE WHEN I SAY SUCKS I MEAN SUCKS. The first module I got totally stopped working out of the blue after I had it for like 2 weeks and O MY LORD, I could not get ahold of those guys! I think that the product is okay but could be much better...even for the cheap price. I literally tried to call the company for days with no reply. Okay on to the good part...I got a replacement product from BRS and it has been working great now for about 2 months :). I did email a very nasty email to digital aquatics letting them know how I felt. Buy the Neptune Apex controllers not this.

What is the maximum number of modules that can connect to the Reefkeeper lite?

Question by: Michael on Oct 22, 2013 5:42:00 AM

Hi Michael,
The maximum number of modules is 4. This does not include the head unit itself but all connected PC4's, SL1s, MLCs, etc.

Answer by: Bulk Reef Supply on Oct 22, 2013 5:42:00 AM

Probably a couple stupid questions here: Can this product be used as a timer for my ATI 6 bulb T5 (its non-dimable and I dont want to dim - just want the blues to turn on first)? While at the same time replace my wavemaster pro that feeds two Sicce voyager 3's?

With this $119 kit would I need to buy anything else? I see maybe the expansion power strip for the fan, heater, pump, and skimmer.

Thanks for the help,

John Q

Question by: john q on Jul 22, 2014 9:17:00 AM

Hi John,
The ReefKeeper system basically controls individual outlets. If the blue lights in the fixture are on their own power plug, then it isn't any problem at all for the reef keeper to do that. As long as you make sure to have enough outlets you can certainly plug your pumps into it and use it as a wavemaker as well.

Answer by: Bulk Reef Supply on Jul 22, 2014 9:17:00 AM

Can you add extra power bars to the lite basic unit? or will it just recognize and control the single 4 outlet bar?

Question by: lance on Jan 12, 2018 9:20:00 AM

Thanks for contacting BRS!
You can use two PB4s with the Reefkeeper lite, and it can run four modules, not including the head unit. Have a great day!

Answer by: Noah Winn (Admin) on Jan 16, 2018 10:56:00 AM

Can I add a ph probe to the reefkeeper lite basic?

Question by: Gashaw Rochester on May 15, 2017 5:19:00 PM

The RKL will require the SLX module to accept a pH probe input.

https://www.bulkreefsupply.com/reefkeeper-slx-module.html

Happy reefing!

Answer by: Zack (Admin) on May 17, 2017 4:23:00 PM

I am considering a ReefKeeper Lite for just controlling my lights. Will the PC4 power bar be able to handle 3 standard 120w LED fixtures and 1 IceCap ballast that fires 2 160w VHO bulbs? I want to have all 4 sets of lights turn on and off at different times. Will the ReefKeeper Lite handle this?

Question by: Larry on Apr 12, 2016 8:15:00 AM

Great question!
The Reef Keepers power bar can be individually controlled and work well for your situation. Feel free to let us know if you have any further questions!

Answer by: Connor (Admin) on Apr 14, 2016 5:36:00 PM

Can the reefkeeper lite control titanium heaters? and what is the max wattage?

Question by: Bruce on Jan 27, 2016 7:22:00 AM

Great question!
The max wattage in standard outlet is 300 watt, they can control larger wattage on the separate relay outlet or with the expansion socket.
https://www.bulkreefsupply.com/reefkeeper-expansion-socket-digital-aquatics.html

Answer by: Connor (Admin) on Feb 3, 2016 5:26:00 PM

Do you need a computer to set this up or for any of the options?

Question by: Tyler on Nov 24, 2016 8:48:00 PM

Great question! You do not need a computer to program the outlets, but it does make the process a bit easier! Check out this video that Ryan did on the Reef Keeper series. :-)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ls0ABH6JV-Y

Answer by: Randy (Admin) on Nov 25, 2016 7:04:00 AM

Can this handle ONE 500 watt titanium heater?

Question by: Brad on Nov 17, 2017 8:50:00 AM

Hey there,

The mechanical relay outlets (1 & 4) are rated for a maximum draw of 8 amps, and the power bar itself can handle up to 15 amps total. You can typically expect a 500 watt heater to draw about 4-5 amps. So long as the heater is plugged into one of these two outlets, you should have no issue.

Happy reefing!

Answer by: Zack (Admin) on Nov 17, 2017 10:01:00 AM

Do you have the Reefkeeper in EU Version

Question by: Scott on May 18, 2017 10:30:00 AM

I'm afraid we are currently unable to sell our products outside of our North American market. All of our products are wired for standard US 110 volt electrical.

Regards

Answer by: Zack (Admin) on May 18, 2017 7:54:00 PM

In the third picture shown that shows all of the different pieces included with the RKL, directly under the right side of the PB4 there is a cable that I did not receive. Is it a network interface cable? Was I supposed to have had one of those included and it is missing? Or is it they no longer include that cable in the RKL package?

Thanks.

Question by: Steve R on Nov 17, 2017 12:22:00 PM

That is a bus connection union that will allow you to connect your system to the SID connector. If you feel that you are missing it, we can issue an RMA to have it sent back to us and a replacement unit sent out, or by contacting ReefKeeper directly they should be able to help you out with that individual piece.

Answer by: Charlie (Admin) on Nov 25, 2017 12:16:00 PM

Is there a way to make this unit accept more than 4 modules? Is there a module expander or something?

Question by: Sean on Jul 19, 2016 10:33:00 PM

Hi Sean,
The ReefKeeper Lite has limited memory and processing power and simply just cannot control more than 4 modules. If you need more than 4 modules, you would need to upgrade to the Elite model.
Thanks for the question, and if you have any more just let us know.

Answer by: Charlie (Admin) on Jul 20, 2016 11:28:00 AM

Hello,
Does this work lite basic with power heads to vary flow?

Question by: Jack on Jan 7, 2018 4:49:00 AM

Thanks for contacting BRS!
This product can be used to turn powerheads off and on to create varying flow. Have a great day!

Answer by: Josh Cuta (Admin) on Jan 11, 2018 2:21:00 PM

Does the basic lite measure the salinity? Or do I need to buy another probe for that?

Question by: Spenser on Feb 4, 2017 5:41:00 AM

Great question! You would need additional products in order to add salinity monitoring to that system. I've linked them below. :-)

https://www.bulkreefsupply.com/sl2v2-salinity-module-and-probe-package.html

Answer by: Randy (Admin) on Feb 6, 2017 9:47:00 AM

Hello,

I am sure it is listed somewhere but I can not find it, can you buy the Lite Plus but have the head unit updated to the elite head unit ?

Question by: Jason on Jan 20, 2016 10:03:00 AM

Great question!
We do not sell the elite head module separately and would expect it not to work with the lite from the different connections. You may want to contact DA directly. Feel free to let us know if you have any further questions!
Digital Aquatics – 425-527-0995 support@digitalaquatics.com

Answer by: Connor (Admin) on Jan 27, 2016 7:12:00 PM

What is the length of the bus cable that comes with the ReefKeeper Lite Basic?

Question by: Michael on Aug 26, 2016 3:38:00 PM

Thanks for reaching out to us! That will come with the 6ft bus cable. :-)

Answer by: Randy (Admin) on Aug 26, 2016 3:40:00 PM

Does the head unit have a probe connect for ph and salinity or is there something extra that I have to purchase to connect a probe?

Question by: Paul on Mar 13, 2016 6:14:00 PM

Great question!
The ReefKeeper lite will not come with a pH module or salinity. This can be purchased with the SL2 module and the respective probes. I have included a link below to the SL2 module.
https://www.bulkreefsupply.com/reefkeeper-elite-sl2-ph-and-salinity-module-digital-aquatics.html

Answer by: Connor (Admin) on Mar 15, 2016 10:39:00 AM

Can the reef keeper lite basic control 2 150watt jager heaters or will you have to buy something extra and is it terribly hard to program it to do so thanks

Question by: Nick on Mar 27, 2016 9:32:00 AM

Great question!
The reef keeper will be able to handle 2 heaters no problem. You can simply program the heaters outlet to turn on or off at certain temperatures. Feel free to let us know if you have any further questions!

Answer by: Connor (Admin) on Mar 28, 2016 7:04:00 PM

Does the ReefKeeper Lite Basic come with the ability to set the controls on a computer, or is that a higher model? If so, will it work on pc, mac, or say an ipad?

Question by: Jordan on May 31, 2016 10:01:00 PM

Great question!
It can be programmed with MyReef 2.0 through a PC by directly plugging in. This will only program however and not offer physical control of the unit. Feel free to let us know if you have any further questions!

Answer by: Connor (Admin) on Jun 2, 2016 2:32:00 PM

Do I need a special heater to use this function or the one I have .I'm thinking that I just turn my heater up on high and then use the controller to keep the temperature. ??

Ed

Question by: Edmund Secula on Oct 9, 2013 1:26:00 PM

Hey Ed,
You don't need any sort of special heater. Most folks use it the way you describe, or if they have a heater that is fairly accurate to begin with they will set the heater to the desired temp (say 78 degrees) and then set the reef keeper to 79 degrees. This allows the heater to control itself while still having the RK act as a backup incase the heaters thermostat fails.

Answer by: Bulk Reef Supply on Oct 9, 2013 1:26:00 PM

Digital Aquatics

ReefKeeper Lite Basic

Quick Compare - ReefKeeper

Dead on arrival By David Tag on 3/17/2018

Great results using this controller. By Jay on 1/1/2018

Best 100 bucks spent By Zach on 12/7/2017

Good enough By Richard on 11/20/2017

Easy to use controller By Kenm on 8/27/2017

Saved me! By Wendy on 5/16/2017

difficult to set up By Jack on 4/23/2017

Good product By RobertP on 12/24/2016

Great entry level controler By Adam on 12/14/2016

Great Product By Darryl on 10/15/2016

Great Controller if your willing to spend some time setting it up. By Sean on 8/30/2016

Much to be desired By Jeremy on 6/28/2016

What is the maximum number of modules that can connect to the Reefkeeper lite?

Can you add extra power bars to the lite basic unit? or will it just recognize and control the single 4 outlet bar?

Can I add a ph probe to the reefkeeper lite basic?

I am considering a ReefKeeper Lite for just controlling my lights. Will the PC4 power bar be able to handle 3 standard 120w LED fixtures and 1 IceCap ballast that fires 2 160w VHO bulbs? I want to have all 4 sets of lights turn on and off at different times. Will the ReefKeeper Lite handle this?

Can the reefkeeper lite control titanium heaters? and what is the max wattage?

Do you need a computer to set this up or for any of the options?

Can this handle ONE 500 watt titanium heater?

Do you have the Reefkeeper in EU Version

Is there a way to make this unit accept more than 4 modules? Is there a module expander or something?

Hello, Does this work lite basic with power heads to vary flow?

Does the basic lite measure the salinity? Or do I need to buy another probe for that?

Hello, I am sure it is listed somewhere but I can not find it, can you buy the Lite Plus but have the head unit updated to the elite head unit ?

What is the length of the bus cable that comes with the ReefKeeper Lite Basic?

Does the head unit have a probe connect for ph and salinity or is there something extra that I have to purchase to connect a probe?

Can the reef keeper lite basic control 2 150watt jager heaters or will you have to buy something extra and is it terribly hard to program it to do so thanks

Does the ReefKeeper Lite Basic come with the ability to set the controls on a computer, or is that a higher model? If so, will it work on pc, mac, or say an ipad?

Do I need a special heater to use this function or the one I have .I'm thinking that I just turn my heater up on high and then use the controller to keep the temperature. ?? Ed

Hello,
Does this work lite basic with power heads to vary flow?

Hello,

I am sure it is listed somewhere but I can not find it, can you buy the Lite Plus but have the head unit updated to the elite head unit ?

Do I need a special heater to use this function or the one I have .I'm thinking that I just turn my heater up on high and then use the controller to keep the temperature. ??

Ed