How much better is a CO2 diffusor than using a power filter?

[cgcaver]

I know there's probably a difference between using a C02 diffusor, and simply sticking the hose in the intake for a power filter (HOB) - but how much difference are we talking here? Is it worth the $50 for a diffusor?? It seems like the filter impeller and spillway would do a pretty good job of mixing the CO2 into the water... am I way off base here?

 

[krap101]

what kind of filter do you have? ive heard bio wheels mess it up so barely any c02 gets into the water. bigals online has a 11$ one that you can hook up to a diy c0w. the nutrafin one.

im not sure because i havent gotten it yet. without a biowheel i heard it works well.

 

[cgcaver]

I have an AC500, so a pretty dang powerful HOB

 

[fishyrican]

The problem with a biowheel is that it allows the CO2 to be released into the air before it has a chance to dissolve into the tank water. In addition, in order to make the most of co2 supplementation, the water surface cannot be agitated.