CO2 systems

[LMarts]

Hi everyone. I know it has been a long time, but once again, I need help. I have a 75G planted with a 48" 4 X 54W NOVA EXTREME. I have had a huge algae problem. I just scrubbed everything clean, took out all the plants and dipped them in a light H2O and bleach solution (soaking in Prime solution afterward). The DIY CO2 just wasn't cutting it. I now need to look at a whole CO2 system. Any ideas would be great...of course, $ is a concern.

 

[tom91970]

This is what I did....bought a regulator for $90 plus shipping from here: Basic CO2 Injection System: Aquarium Supplies - Aqua Buys

I bought a 5 pound cyclinder on ebay for $54 plus $13 for shipping. Here's one from the same seller: 5 lb. Co2 Tank Keg Beer Tap Kegerator Taps Aquarium - eBay (item 130231963054 end time Jun-25-08 07:58:33 PDT)

 

[Orlando]

That's a fairly large tank any plans as of yet on how your going to diffuse your co2?

 

[TabMorte]

I have a friend that's told me he can rig me up a CO2 system using my paintball tank (which wee means free refills!). He said all I need then is a regulator and defuser. I'll let you know how that goes when it's done!

 

[Orlando]

I think for a 75G a paintball set up would not last very long with a 2-3 BPS. The least I would go with is 5lb. That will atleast give you 6-10 months worth of co2. At 5lb your looking at maybe $12-15 per refill.

 

[ishar]

Hey LMarts. I bought my regulator from greenleafaquariums.com. I haven't received it yet, but I have read the one I bought, the Milwaukee one, is a decent one- and at $99 I got the reg, a solenoid and a bubble counter plus some CO2 hosing to get me set-up. They also sell some good looking diffusers there too.

 

[emmanuelchavez]

A limewood diffuser has been working for me, not sure how long it'll last w/a diy setup though. i got a package w/2 for about $5 at Petco(?).

The prices Tom listed are very good though, I've been looking around for a while, and that's some of the best I've seen!

 

[LMarts]

Thanks for all the great info guys. Haven't been able to get anything yet..no time, less money..just had to upgrade to a SUV to have room for the upcoming baby..sigh, the gas billls. Can anyone tell me what the bare minimum I will need to get is? I know NOTHING about the CO2 aspect of aquarium keeping. Any and all help is appreciated.

 

[tom91970]

Bare minimum? Several DIY systems, I suppose, but once you hook up an injection system where there is no 1-3 week change outs you won't ever look back. I'm quite proud of my little $160 investment.