Did Co2 Upgrade ? From Canister...

I recently purchased a smaller 45g co2 kit for my aquariums . After about a month of running out of co2 so rapidly it's not worth the time or money in my opinions . The first - third canister lasted abiut a week and the last one lasted 2 days ... I saw this as a big flaw!... So I just ordered a diy co2 kit knowing I'm going to have to spend a little more time setting up and changing mixture , but also know that it's going to last me once I get it dialed in. And also more cost effective!! In my eyes it's an upgrade for sure . Others might disagree with me but I recommend a diy co2 kit over a small canister co2 kit on a 20 gallon and over!!! Any questions feel free to ask I and others will do out best to honestly answer any questions u may have .

 

Really? maybe you did something wrong? How much were you injecting? What size co2 tank did you get?

 

What size co2 tank did you use and were you using a regulator or manifold? I've been interested in trying co2 but unsure on which method to try.

 

I think the issue is that these small CO2 cartridges (e.g. the Fluval 45 gram cartridge fits in your pocket) really don't long at all when used on larger tanks.

I envision that they're more intended for nano tanks 5-10 gallons and for a lower rate of CO2 injection (10 ppm).

For small tanks (10 gallons and under) and higher CO2 injection, you're better of using a paintball CO2 canister system. For anything over, a pressurised system with a 2-3 lb bottle.

DIY CO2 works fine as well, but again, it lacks automation, fine tuning and consistency. Automation can be slightly remedied by using an inline solenoid, and fine tuning can be aided with an aftermarket needle valve, but consistency really can't be improved.

 

I had a Fluval 88g kit. One cartridge last about 2-3 weeks and it cost more than the refill for my paintball canister (which last 3 months). At least, I used the Fluval kit regulator (via an adapter) on the paintball so I did not throw away the entire kit. The diffuser is also ok but the bubble counter is a junk.

 

Really? maybe you did something wrong? How much were you injecting? What size co2 tank did you get?

45g co2 tank and about 3-4 bps in my 29 gallon .

 

I think the issue is that these small CO2 cartridges (e.g. the Fluval 45 gram cartridge fits in your pocket) really don't long at all when used on larger tanks.

I envision that they're more intended for nano tanks 5-10 gallons and for a lower rate of CO2 injection (10 ppm).

For small tanks (10 gallons and under) and higher CO2 injection, you're better of using a paintball CO2 canister system. For anything over, a pressurised system with a 2-3 lb bottle.

DIY CO2 works fine as well, but again, it lacks automation, fine tuning and consistency. Automation can be slightly remedied by using an inline solenoid, and fine tuning can be aided with an aftermarket needle valve, but consistency really can't be improved.

You are probably right I can see it working in a smaller tank ! It said it works on a 29 but ,....yea it would work in a swimming pool tho..the knob turns and co2 comes out ... But simply not big enough for it... I plan on getting a co2 generater soon so the diy should be perfect for now .

 

I use a 5 lb canister tank. I purchased it for $65.00 on Amazon. What ever system you use. You will need a regulator with bubble counter, a diffuser some tubbing an a check-valve. It cost me about $125 + to set the whole thing up. If you are going to use DIY system its cheaper. If your like me and don't want to messing around with making your mixes every week then its worth the extra money. I have a 65 gal. planted tank and the 5 lb canister tank was worth it to me. Less hassle for me. You can use the swap out at your local distributer. For me the gas last about 4 months. I have to run a heaver load due to high PH in the tap water. Good luck!!