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CO2 Kit Recomendation

Mark D

Member
Joined
2 May 2015
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47
I am currently upgrading my Rio 400 tanks (400l model, currently with 4x 54W T5 lights). I currently dose with Easy-life ferts (including EasyCarbo)

For a 2nd phase of this upgrade I am looking into new lighting and a CO2 system to make increase the planting.

For new lighting I am looking at this http://www.iquaticsonline.co.uk/aqualumi/5ft-6-t5-silver-aqualumi-aquarium-lighting-pendant.html which would be 6x80W T5s

Can anyone point me in the direction of a good co2 system to use with the proposed set up? I would prefer to avoid DIY systems.

Thanks
 
http://www.co2art.co.uk/collections/complete-co2-systems

This is a link to the kits but they are not perfect for your size tank.

If I were you I would buy separately all the following:

-One up inline atomizer. You can also use a reactor if prefered.
-One regulator with integrated solenoid
-one inline bubble counter with secure locks on the ends and a checkvalve (included) like this one: http://www.co2art.co.uk/collections...-co2-bubble-counter-with-build-in-check-valve
-one timer
-co2 tubing

Its all in that website which Ive found to be the best value for money.

Note all these are my personal recommendations, gathered from some time of experience in trying to safe money and spending more in the end. With co2 its good to do it the right way from start.
 
For a 2nd phase of this upgrade I am looking into new lighting and a CO2 system to make increase the planting.
I really recommend you try the light youve got atm. The more light you have the more algae youll suffer if youre a beginner or even intermediate plant keeper.
 
I currently have an Aquamanta EFX 1500U https://fishkeeper.co.uk/product/aquamanta-efx-1500-u-external-filter and an additional circulation pump (not sure on the model). I will be adding an additional internal filter as part of the upgrade.

The 1500 will be enough biological filtration for the tank, don't think you want an internal filter as they're pretty rubbish. Maybe go with another circulation pump or you could look at a centrifugal pump to power an inline diffuser through a second spray bar.
 
Easy the thread is the same, so it was just a case of taking off the horn thingy ;), screwing the JBL one on and then gaffer taping the handles closed...
 
Easy the thread is the same, so it was just a case of taking off the horn thingy ;), screwing the JBL one on and then gaffer taping the handles closed...

Good to know.

Does anyone know what the difference between the M603 and M1003 is other than the CO2 cylinder it comes with is?
 
Good to know.

Does anyone know what the difference between the M603 and M1003 is other than the CO2 cylinder it comes with is?

They look exactly the same, and that's the problem with companies like JBL: they charge you those prices because you'll pay it, not because that's what the kit is worth.

http://www.co2art.co.uk/collections/complete-co2-systems

Those are better quality and cost less. Read up on CO2 controllers as well, they aren't particularly useful for actually controlling CO2, but they can serve as a failsafe (incase something breaks and CO2 is going far too high)
 
I do like the look of the co2art kits and do work out a lot cheaper.
If I did get one is there anything I should look out for in getting a FE cylinder.

Also water parameters in my tank are currently PH 8 (8.14 just before lights out and 7.88 just before lights on - I have a seneye so get readings every 30mins) and is kH 14 (24 hours after last water change).

What should I be aiming for when setting things up?
 
Nothing to look out for really. The one I've got is about 10 years old and was abandoned in a warehouse...
 
Anything new should be full. You just want to get the cheapest one you can, if you ring around local suppliers and make it clear its for a fish tank (i.e. not fire safety kit) you can probably get a better deal on an older cylinder. £60 seems a bit steep to me but I've never bought a 5kg...

Lots of people have 2 cylinders, depends on how quickly you can get your refills done. No real point if you can get it done quickly

edit: there are refurbished ones for £45 on ebay. still seems a bit pricey but far better than £60!

Theres also one in cheshire for £35 if you can pick up. Getting local stuff should always be cheaper because they're heavy. Just don't ring chubb
 
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