CO2 tank/regulator ... how to get started

[jibboo]

OK, guys, I'm sure there is likely a place to find this already, but I'm kinda at the place where I'm considering doing a CO2 tank since my DIY CO2 never puts out hardly any CO2 bubbles.

So, with that said, I have a 55g w/ 130w of CF lighting (10k). I basically don't understand the whole CO2 setup with a tank/regulator. Can you guys give me the basics and recommendations on size / bubble count etc?

thanks

 

[tbonem91]

I would get a 10 lb tank and in the beginning aim for a bubble count of 1 bubble per second. After running for a day or so (on timer or ph meter) measure and calculate your CO2 and then adjust your bubble count to increase it if need be. Chances are you'll want a couple bubbles per second in that size tank.

 

[jibboo]

k ... can anyone recommend places to get a cylinder? I've seen weilding shops listed, and after searching on ebay, I see CO2 cylinders for paintball guns, weilding and homemade beer/keg things. Are all of these the same?

What about brands of regulators? I've seen the Milwaukee all-in-one do-hicky for $77 or something. Does anyone have any recommendations on brands? How long will these last?

http://www.aquariumplants.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=pr333&click=35

the ad at the bottom claims that theirs is better and comes with a 3 yr warranty ... you mean to tell me that these things are failing in less than 3 yrs from other manufacturers?

 

[tbonem91]

I would go with a Milwaukee - for the tank, welding supply stores will have them, check airgas.com to see if theres one of their stores near you, and sometimes hydroponics stores will have em