Proper C02 injection

[C-Dub]

I was researching some c02 systems and seems like it can get pretty complex. I like things with my aquarium nice and simple, what would be my best bet in purchasing a c02 system for my planted 54gal corner. Nothing too extravagant or too costly. I guess I'm looking for an efficient system without the bells and whistles. Any suggestions as always are welcome.

Thanks,
Chris

[PUNISHER VETTE]

what's your budget?

If I were you i'd buy/rent a 5# cylinder.=about $90

Pick up a $100 regulator w/ solenoid, needle valve, and bubble counter off ebay. Hook the two up and forget out the thing for a few months till it's time to refill it. Milwaukee, Azoo, JBJ,...

You're looking at around $200 this way.

You can however buy cheaper regulators without all the bells and whistles for say $50 but then you'll be buying more CO2 on a regular basis.

[doug z]

It's not cheap, and "simple" is a relative term..

But here's what a set-up looks like:

http://www.aquaticcommunity.com/fishpictures/data/585/medium/co2_system_Large_.jpg

You could get by without the pH controller.. That would save you $150..

They're nice to have, though..

And pressurized CO2 is pretty much the only way to go for tanks over 40g..

[digital3]

You can pick up a brand new 5 lb. tank for a very reasonable price from here...

http://www.co2-canisters.com/index1.html

only about 60 bucks!

CO2 can be tricky. But not impossible to learn. I would definitely educate yourself before taking the plunge. Click here (http://www.rexgrigg.com/) for some good info.

The main things you need would be...

1) a Co2 tank
2) a regulator (including a good needle valve)
3) a method of dissolving the Co2 in the water (reactor, bubble ladder, etc.)
4) a drop checker filled with 4dkh water (to measure your Co2 levels)
5) a bubble counter (not totally needed, but cheap enough to get so you can avoid headaches while you're getting used to things)

That would be bare minimum I think. I agree that a PH controller is not a necessity.

[doug z]

PS

Of course, if you are using a canister filter, you would hook the reactor up to the outflow of the cannister, rather than a powerhead..

If you AREN'T using a canister filter, and/or want to save a bit more, you could just hook the CO2 supply up to a diffuser (http://www.greenleafaquariums.com/co2-diffusers/diffuser-5000.html), rather than a powerhead and reactor..

C02 cylinder -> regulator with solonoid -> bubble counter -> check valve -> CO2 approved silicone tubing -> diffuser

[C-Dub]

wow, thanks for all the great info everyone. I have a sump so could i incorporate it into my supply line from the sump pump?

[PUNISHER VETTE]

wow, thanks for all the great info everyone. I have a sump so could i incorporate it into my supply line from the sump pump?

Usually when you add CO2 into the intake of a line it has to go through the impeller. I'll assume your sump pump has a impeller inside.

This is sometimes a bad idea because the CO2 can build up around the impeller and cause cavitation(pocket of air) and damage your pump.

Best bet is to build a PVC reactor and put it on the output of your pump.

[digital3]

Also (and someone correct me if I'm wrong), I believe most sumps are open topped? I think you will have to also ensure that it is sealed to ensure that Co2 doesn't outgas before it is absorbed in the water.

[C-Dub]

Wouldn't it be ok then going into the supply line up to the tank directly after the pump so it goes everywhere first before ever hitting the pump impeller? Or should i ditch the sump all together and just run my fluval 3 series?

[C-Dub]

Sorry i keep forgetting to add that i would like to keep it under 300 us dollars.

[Nullentropy]

I too am looking at injection. I've come across two pre-built systems. One in your budget, which is below.

http://www.aquabuys.com/miva/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=co2_set_dlx_06

The other is a bit outside your budget, and mine:

http://www.aquariumplants.com/product_p/pr4026.htm?Click=13333&gclid=CPOp5pH4_ZgCFQkzawodfmU5lg

Both seem great, and I think I might opt for the cheaper one.

[C-Dub]

thanks a lot is there anything else i need to make the first kit run or is that everything?

[Nullentropy]

The only other item I believe you will need is a CO2 canister. Make sure it is the proper connection for the Milwaukee CO2 Regulator - Solenoid Valve, which I believe it is as the kit is for a standard CO2 tank. I found a website that seems to have pretty affordable CO2 tanks. I was looking at the 5Lb or 10Lb. From the sounds of your setup, either should work, but the 10Lb canister will require fewer refill trips and sounds like it is cheaper at larger volumes. Around $15 for a refill at a local hardware shop.

CO2 containers: http://stores.kegconnection.com/Categories.bok

Overall though, you could make your overall purchase cheaper if you did not want a fully automatic system--one that would not have an automatic pH feedback loop that adjusts the CO2 of your system immediately--you could opt to piece your own parts together without the pH meter.

You can always make a DIY reactor out of PVC, which I have used and found to have good results. Cost me about $20 to make: http://www.rexgrigg.com/diy-reactor.htm

I've had friends make their own DIY systems for a total investment of around $200 ($80 for Tank, Regulator @ $89, $20 for hosing and PVC reactor). Of course no where near as accurate.

Between the two systems I posted links to, the 2nd will be far more accurate due to the valve action, but sounds like its for really serious folks. The first system or a well researched DIY will both work--of course, with the automated feedback loop, you will likely have better results with the pre-packaged kit.

[Michael10]

CO2 injection is the only way to go. Do not buy a nice CO2 tank as most gas businesses trade out your empty tank for one of theirs.I get 5 pounds for $12.00. A needle valve makes adjusting flow a lot easier, get a regulator that comes on and off with your lights, I use a simple glass diffuser to dissolve the CO2 into the water. Stopping all surface agitation is a must or you will be paying for CO2 going right out the window, so to speak. I had to rig my canister filter out flow pipe deeper into the aquarium to prevent this.
Good luck.