Starting out with CO2

[Stormwulf133]

First I will start by saying I read the sticky thread on co2, and many many other articles on the subject and remain somewhat confused.

I have been into aquariums for a long time, so normal stuff is by no means new to me. Nor are aquarium plants, or so I thought. I have begun researching CO2 and am just completely overwhelmed by the information, conflicting reviews out there. I will be setting up CO2 on a 75 gallon tank and have no clue where to turn to get what I need. I am currently trying to find a local store to purchase and/or fill my CO2 tank. I would prefer to do most of my purchasing on Amazon however, as I will be using an Amazon credit card and just paying it back when my taxes come back. I have gotten several recommendation to go with greanleaf products, and several recommendations NOT to go with their products. I can pretty much say that about any brand out there right now. As they do not sell on Amazon it looks as if I am leaning toward NOT. Here is where I need help. I am linking a couple items I am considering purchasing and need to know what you all think. I have found threads about some of these but a lot of the reviews are older ones.

This is the solenoid I am considering going with.

http://www.amazon.com/AQUATEK-Regul...22999269&sr=1-3-catcorr&keywords=co2+solenoid

and this tank

http://www.amazon.com/10lb-Aluminum...&qid=1422999427&sr=8-1&keywords=co2+tank+10lb

What else am I going to need besides these two? If anyone has any recommendations of alternate products as well, please let me know. I really have no clue what I am doing despite over a month of reading. I learn mainly by doing.

I have been told I also need at least a diffuser and check valve as well. If anyone can point me to the right products, and as I said, on Amazon if possible, please help.

 

[fort384]

well, hate to muddy the waters, but I would go with a Milkwaukee MA957. Been around forever, works really well... solidly built. It costs less than the the one you linked too.

$89 - Milwaukee MA957 CO2 Regulator, Free Priority Shipping!

Beyond this how do you intend to diffuse the CO2 into the tank? That will be about the only thing you are missing (also CO2 proof tubing, which the milwaukee I linked comes with).

Also, seems high for the tank. Is there an Airgas near you or some other welding supply? You might be able to get a tank from them that is an exchange program for half that cost.

If you are looking for more reading on CO2 systems, there is an article here that lays out the basics, though I think you probably have most of it covered:
http://www.aquariumadvice.com/beginners-guide-to-co2-injection-in-the-planted-tank/