adding the media slowly is a good idea so you do not shock the system.It is my understanding that your present leveling result is normal.Slowing the flow or tumbleing will just slow the bio bacteria growth in the reactor down. in turn slowing down the results.From what I've read it takes a full six to eight weeks to develop the needed bacteria.I just recieved a reactor from BRS and plan to do a full review with results and of the reactor if intrested.I do like the idea of a solid non doased carbon treatment.