Cheap CO2 System Question

[Scoobcake]

I picked up this for my new 10G planted tank I'm doing and this will be my first time using CO2:

Amazon.com: Hagen Nutrafin CO2 Natural Plant System with CO2 Activator and Stabilizer: Pet Supplies

I'm just wondering if theres anything else I should pick up dealing with CO2. I know your PH can be affected and read up a bunch on that. I have a PH test kit, should I pick up a KH test kit? If so how often should I be testing PH/KH?

Thanks a bunch!

 

[Scoobcake]

Im just worried using this will lower my PH and when I bring the fish home from the store they will be shocked by the chang ein PH.

 

[mfdrookie516]

Don't worry about the pH changing. pH isn't a concern, it's TDS, which doesn't change. I'd get a drop checker though, so that you can monitor your co2 levels.

In case you haven't realized it yet, that's just a glorified DIY co2 system.

 

[Scoobcake]

Yeah i realized that but I wanted a more finished look and didnt want to do all the work myself mainly because I dont even have a drill.

 

[mfdrookie516]

Understandable. If you get a drop checker, get it off ebay. You can get 3 for $10, then all you need is some 4dkh solution ($5 on ebay) and a pH test kit (which you have). The drop checker stays in the tank and changes colors based on the co2 concentration.