Need CO2 Advice!

kkaso783

Hey everyone I am interested in setting up my 55 Gallon Aquarium with CO2 and was wondering what setups I should look into? One thing that I can tell you is that I am using a 5lb CO2 tank. So anything that can hook up to that tank I can use. What parts do I need and how do I set up my tank with CO2? Thank you! :)

kritas

- Co2 tank/cylinder (you have this)
- Regulator valve
- Bubble counter
- Solenoid
- A few check valves
- Reactor
- Powerhead(connected to reactor)
- Co2 resistant tubing

Pretty much everything you need for a Co2 system. People will tell you to get a PH controller, but dont listen to them, it is not essential and not worth the extra money in my opinion... When you start to do things electronically, it takes the fun out of fish keeping IMHO...

klosxe

I diasgree with your view on a moniter.....

It is very important to use a syestem that moniters your PH constantly, which I dbout you can do ALL the time EVERYDAY. If you dont, you can have some major PH crashes, which will KILL EVERYTHING, and I'm sure you dont want that.....

A PH moniter will keep your PH in check all the time, and keep your CO2 in good standing at the same time.

I would say to use it, it is well worth its cost, (which isnt as bad as suggested above)

so in addition to the list as provided by Kritas, I would definatly add in that all important PH moniter.

Other than that, good list, hope your tank works out! :D

flight50

i've heard bad things about the ph controller. mainly, its not reliable. for the money it may not be for some. if you keep up with your water parameter and know whats in your tank, you can do it manually. i don't trust electronic my self. you get accustomed to your tank being taken care of and may loss you maintenance mindset and loose fish anyways. also there are other ways to dissolve co2 in water without a powerhead. there are diy's on it or you can get an already assembled kit. one i like and have comes with a rio 50 pump, they cylinder w/domed interior and tubing. the milwalkee brand has a nice regulator with it. comes with the solenoid and bubble counter as a kit. got mine from ebay for under 100 bucks.