How did I do on my new Pressurized CO2 system?

[CGGorman]

I fretted over the choices for a couple weeks. Finally took the plunge yesterday.

First off, this is for a 70 gallon corner tank, about 24" deep. Substrate heat. Sand over the heat cable, then about 3" of Flourite. 2.75 wpg, 50% 10,000k, 50% 6,700k (SunPaq pc bulbs). Rena Xp3 filter.

I ordered the 5lb aluminum cylinder from a beer/tap/keg supply place called micro-matic. Paid about $70 shipped.

I also ordered the #4 Combo "meal" from www.aquatic-store.com (http://www.aquatic-store.com/en-us/p_3030.html). I went ahead and got the CO2-friendly hose, bubble-counter fluid (silicone fluid, I assume, but didn't want to take a chance), and the calibration fluids. Came to about $250 shipped. It includes the Milwaukee regulator/gauge-set, solenoid, counter, and needle valve; the Milwaukee SMS 122 controller,; and the AquaMedic Reactor 1000.

I think the reactor is too much for a little 70, but it seemed the best engineered of the ones I found. I plan to adapt the fittings to fit 5/8" tubing from the return line of the Xp3. Hopefully it runs quiet. I was concerned about the in-tank passive diffusers getting crapped up with algae and stuff. I was also concerned about the in-tank clutter. I know this set-up will require me to run the probe into the tank, but that's a lot easier to hide than a big ladder or something.

Any comments?
I try to buy equipment that will be low-maintenance and long-life. I've found the extra money is usually well-spent...

I know it's too late now, but how did I do pricewise and quality-wise? Anybody else running a similar setup (especially that reactor)?

I won't have it all up and running for a week, probably, but I'm excited anyway!

 

[Simpte]

Its a good setup. Very similiar to mine though my reactor is DIY.

 

[ringfinger]

Looks like you have everything I wish I could afford. :? The only thing I don't know about is the reactor. I use the Power and the Power Vortex Reactor in my 2 tanks, and I really like them a lot. I'm sure yours will be great though.

 

[Wizzard~Of~Ozz]

The aquamedic 1000 is a great reactor, 0 waste (aside from escape after it's in the column) and it's rated for up to 250Gallons (realistically, 180Gal, tho more flow may increase this)

Good job, I'm probably ordering a Co2 Reg, and PH Controller tonight before I go to bed, I have a reactor on the way if dr. fosters will ship them already.. (ordered by a friend around the end of Dec.) Found a local place that I can pick up 5 or 10lb tanks, 5lb is 75$ full and 10$ per fill after that, 10lb is 90$ full and 15$/fill after that, so I'll go with the 10lb tank.

Let us all know how it works out for you.

I have a question, if you don't mind. I noticed you mention Calibration fluid? I assume a tester of this comes with it. but why can't you use common household items, like bleach @ PH 12.6 then Vinegar @ PH 2.8? instead of their bottles of stuff? or alternatively use pure distilled water for 7.01 (.01 isn't a huge calibration issue for me since it's only accurate to .1)

 

[CGGorman]

I'm afraid I can't give a satisfactory answer to that, Wiz. I have a tendency to go overboard on stuff I don't completely understand. I don't completely understand the pH monitor/controller yet. I guess I'd rather be preparred for all eventualities and $20 is small portion of the setup cost for this system. Once I get the thing installed and read through the owner's manual a couple times, I may kick myself for paying $20 for their calibration fluids. It's happened before!