CO2... Any Suggestions?

[Fish Monger]

As some of you know, I will be setting up a 75 gallon planted tank in about a month or so.  I was going to do DIY Yeast CO2, but I don't want the hassle of maintaining three bottles at a time, and I have the $$ for a system.

I'd like to get one that is driven with a ph controller to keep the ph level.  Anyone here have equipment suggestions for me?  Any experience with the systems on the market?  I already have access to a 5 or 10 lb. bottle and refills for it through my employer (we do some welding).  Any help is greatly appreciated.

 

[Fish Monger]

I just ordered some stuff.  I got a ph controller, solenoid, and needle valve from Pet Warehouse, and bought a 5 lb. bottle and regulator (with protection for if/when the tank "dumps&quot from a beer brewing supplier.

Pricey, but I got it anyway. :  Ugh, what am I getting myself into? ??? ;D

 

[Matt Nace]

How much did it all come too? I am thinking I might be moving in a few months and I wont setup all my fish tanks again at first. SO I would need a system for my 55 gallon.

 

[Fish Monger]

The CO2 bottle and regulator from http://www.4rapids1.com came to $116 with shipping.  The Solenoid (only if you want to automate turning it on and off with a controller or with a light timer) was $60, and the needle valve (for fine adjustments, you should get one) was $27.  The pH controller (so I can control CO2 injeciton with a pH reading, completely optional) was $200.  I got the rest of the stuff from pet warehouse ( http://www.petwarehouse.com ).

Bare bones, the tank, regulator and needle valve would cost you $143.  If you want to control your CO2 to turn off at night with a timer, add the solenoid to total $203.  If you want the solenoid to be operated by the pH controller, then the total is $403.  Pricey, but nice.

If you want to save $$, and don't mind taking a risk, you could get the stuff on eBay, or just spend the $143 for a new setup as listed above.  Hope I helped!

 

[dattack]

This link is what I got from the aquaria newsgroup.  Supposedly it's a pretty standard deal.  Check it out for yourself and see if the prices match.
http://www.wcf.com/co2iron/


You can get a CO2 tank at your local brewery, welding store for much cheaper than your LFS.  Certain places even rent out CO2 tank for your purposes also.

 

[Driftwood]

8)Seems like you dont mind spending money..
The stuff on this website has wet my apetite. Check
it out.. www.aquagoods.com/
Actually I placed an order, already.

 

[Fish Monger]

It's only money.  I feel that if getting something can make something easier, or make you happier, and you have the means, go for it.