CO2 Generator

[Neal]

I recently purchased a JBL CO2 Set Model "easy 1".

It is indeed easy to set up, but my problem is with the continuous CO2 / pH tester supplied. This unit comprises a small plastic thimble that is half -filled with aquarium water (fresh), with a reagent then being added.

This thimble is then inverted, and immersed in the aquarium. I assume that the CO2 in the aquarium water is supposed to enter the thimble from below, and react with the water/reagent to change the colour.

The colour change that I'm getting indicates a high pH (which is actually neutral as verified using my test kit) and a high CO2 (which I cannot verify), but I've only got the gas flow set very low.

Does anyone have experience with the accuracy of these JBL permanent CO2 / pH testers? Is there anyparticular location within the Aquarium (an Aqua-One AR620T) where I should place it?

Thanks - Neal

[An t-iasg]

Moved to the Planted Tank forum.

I have never seen this particular CO2 generator-pH tester. Hopefully someone else has!

If you have a KH (carbonate hardness) test kit along with your pH test kit, you can calculate your CO2 level. Plug the pH and KH values into this calculator: (about halfway down the page)

http://www.csd.net/~cgadd/aqua/art_plant_co2chart.htm

I know this doesn't answer your setup question but it may be helpful to verify your CO2 level.

[Neal]

Thanks for moving my post to the Plant Forum, and also for the link to the article and the on-line calculator. The JBL brand generator (www.jbl.de) purchased in Australia is supplied with the in-tank continuous tester.

Thanks again.

- Neal -