Best Option for a 10G

I have recently been considering getting CO2 in my tank in order to help my plants thrive, and maybe control a diatom outbreak as well. I know everyone says DIY is the best, but it seemsso bulky and complicated! And the other pressurized systems are way beyond my budget. I saw the Hagen Nutrafin CO2 system but the reviews seem to be very ambiguous. I don't even know where to start!!

This is a 10G. Any suggestions on the best course of action?

 

I don't think it's going to do much to help diatoms, but I don't know for sure. You could consider dosing glutaraldehyde as long as your plant list is compatible. DIY co2 is pretty good, it's a bit variable, but in small tanks it works OK.

 

would something like this be helpful to avoid all the extra craft work? The recipe they use here is citric cid powder and baking soda instead of the yeast and sugar.

 

I currently have a (mostly) DIY CO2 system on my 10 gallon. I bought this: after my failed attempt at making my own. It also suggested citric acid and baking soda but I use yeast and sugar without a hitch. I would recommend buying something premade if you want to avoid making your own and the headache that may come with it i.e. leaks. I use a Nutrafin Bubble Ladder to dissolve the CO2 although it's large in comparison to the 10 gallon.

 

I've not done the citric acid method. It seems ok, although I saw a report on a Facebook group a few days ago about a plastic bottle exploding, so I can't say. Another alternative is paintball co2

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The other thing that scares me is that this would intoxicate my fish or harm them in any way. Am I supposed to turn it off at night? I understand you can't turn it of if its a diy right?

 

Yes, co2 can kill fish. I think most diy co2 people run an air stone at night.

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