Co2, fully automatic or not

[dtezz]

Is a fully automatic CO2 system worth the extra money? my work schedule does not allow for everyday testing of the water parameters. Would a fully automatic CO2 sytem help minimize the swings in water parameters associated with CO2 injection? i am new to planted tanks, but not keeping fish. I have gotten my algae situation under control. I have some new growth, on my plants, but have lost several plants. I do believe this was due to a swing in my waters ph. i did not add my ph buffer after a water change, and lost over half of my plants. I have read the refernces in the beginning of this forum, and am new to this planted tank stuff, just trying to figure it all out. thanks

 

[Jason7894561230]

I would recommend it. It can help with how much co2 you put in there. So it is definitly worth the extra $$$$ money lol

 

[fort384]

Using a pH controller to turn on/off your co2 solenoid is GREAT. On my tank, I literally have not touched/adjusted the CO2 system for over a year. The CO2 stays at about 25-30ppm 24/7. Definitely worth the expense imo if you have the money.

 

[Faile]

I actually don't even have a solenoid on my regulator. I just run the CO2 24/7. The only time I've had a problem with too much CO2 in the water was the first time that I set it up and didn't have things adjusted quite right. The main advantage is that a semi automatic or automatic system will allow you to reduce the amount of wasted CO2 so you won't have to refill your cylinder quite as often. I decided against this, as the drawback is that you have a higher power consumption and more parts that can fail. Really it's a judgment call which is best for your situation.