Co2 set up question

[Raws69]

Hi

my schedule is as follows.

co2 starts 8.30am stops 5pm.
lights start 11.30 and reach 60% at 12 then ramp down from 5 to 5.30pm.

I hit a green/slightly blue colour in the drop checker when the lights come on (pic below) and a lime green from around about 2pm to 5pm.

is this ok, hesitant to increase rate as the bubbles are flowing already, but also don’t want to bring the start time forward and saturate the tank

 

[Zeus.]

The DC (Drop Checker) takes time to do its colour change to reflex the [CO2] which can take about 2hrs, so using the DC colour change has its limits as it isn't instant. Hence the reason why a pH profile is advised as its easy and instant results. When a DC colour change and a pH profile are used together correctly, getting a stable [CO2] from lights on till CO2 off is much easier esp when new to CO2. Some experienced CO2 users manage it without.

 

[Raws69]

I assume ph profiles not just taking a test kit reading?

 

[Zeus.]

Yes, take pH pre CO2 on then every 30 mins (including lights on time) till CO2 off make a graph/table - pH should be relatively stable from lights on for first 4-5 hours, IMO stable is less than 0.1pH change

 

[Raws69]

Sweet will get the kit out and give this a go. Cheers