FishProfiles.com Message Forums

Im considering buying a co2 system but i dont know where to start!
Ive have a heavily planted 3ft tank.
Im looking for one thats resonably priced and does'nt run off a socket as all the ones i use for my tank are all taken up.
Can anybody advise me on a decent beginners co2 system

Thanks

A DIY system wouldnt need to be plugged in. I think that alot of the packaged "DIY" inspired kits dont need to be plugged in either. [link=Big Als]http://www.bigalsonline.com/catalog/category.xml?pcid1=3349;category_id=2873" style="COLOR: #EB4288[/link] have a number available. The biggest issue with CO2 on smaller tanks is that the small DIY style units dont work as effectivly and pressurized becomes your only option.

You could always get outlet expanders or powerstrips .

^_^

[hr width='40%']"I'm alright, I'm alright
It only hurts when I breathe"

"The biggest issue with CO2 on smaller tanks is that the small DIY style units dont work as effectivly and pressurized becomes your only option." -- Babelfish, I think you meant to say that it's an issue on bigger tanks?

About pressurised CO2, it doesn't necessarily need to be plugged either, the simple setup of gas bottle, tubing and diffuser uses no electricity, it's only when you add a solenoid valve and pH control that you need those, and neither is a must. I highly recommend getting a pressurised system, they're practically hassle free and at least in my case it works a lot better. Yes, it is the expensive option but I would never think of going back to DIY, the hassle just wasn't for me...

Last edited by untitled at 12-Apr-2005 02:57

Yes that thank you
*blames headache*

DIY won't work much above a 55 as the CO2 mix isnt' strong enough to really make that much of a difference....you'd end up using multiple bottles and replacing the mix more frequently.

^_^


[hr width='40%']"I'm alright, I'm alright
It only hurts when I breathe"

Hi Paddy,

Definitely agree with untitled, if you are thinking of opting for Co2, pressurized is the only way to go .

It is more expensive short term , but will work out cheaper over the long haul. Really it is just a one time expense. Once set up it costs only about $10 a YEAR (for gas refills). It is very very stable, which is very important, once set up and running you never have to touch it again except to refill the gas every 4-6 months.

As untitled said unless you are using a solenoid and pH controller (both unneccessary and expensive luxuries IMO) it doesn't require any power .

It's surprisingly easy to set up and operate. The cost can vary. Buying a "kit" from an lfs is a good bit more expensive then going out and buying the components yourself. But then again finding the individual components can be a real hassle for some.

One word of caution. Are you sure you want this ? Co2 will speed up and increase growth and as such there is an exponential upward shift in maintenance requirements. The increased growth leads to an increased need for nutrients to maintain and keep that growth healthy. You need to be ready for that. It's really not that difficult but does require a shift in methodology. If you are up for that it's very worthwhile but not something you would want on every tank.

Here is an excellent article on setting up a pressurized system It will tell you all you need to know. Have a browse around this site and you will find lots of information on nutrient requirements and diy set ups.
http://www.csd.net/~cgadd/aqua/diy_co2rig.htm

Last edited by bensaf at 11-Apr-2005 22:32

---

Some days you're the pigeon and some days you're the statue.

Remember that age and treachery will always triumph over youth and ability.