vtchef

I have just really been getting into planted aquariums and would like to know what you would recommend for co2 without spending a bunch of money. right now the tank has a 65watt light with a few vals and java moss but i will be added more in the next few weeks. the tank has been running for 1year with tetras and 4shrimp also.

Pinto

Well if you want to save some money you could do a DIY co2. That will save you lots of money.
I heard DIY CO2 the "Jello Method" is super awesome and last longer but i could be wrong.
Though i don't really know the specifics on this method because i don't use DIYs.

Cliff Mayes

Pay me now or pay me later. Take your choice.

DIY is very inexpensive to get into but costs more in the long run. Pressurized CO2 is more expensive up front and is very low cost after that. Pressurized is usually less aggraravation as well. But both can be a PITA if you try to cheap out or take short cuts.

vtchef

whats a basic co2 setup for this size tank going to go for? also is there a place that sells it as a package?

vtchef

is something like this any good?
http://www.bigalsonline.com/StoreCat...ry=co2&offset=

Cliff Mayes

I bought mine from Rex Grigg a while back and it has been OK.

I have heard people complain about and praise them all so it is a crap shoot.

The newest thing is two stage regulators.

Tanks are usually at Gas Suppliers, Fire Extinguisher places, and carbonated beverage suppliers or some folk have used small tanks from Paintball rigs. The market has apparently supplied regulators to fit Paintball stuff because of the demand.

Do a search online for CO2 stuff. There is a host of stuff out there.

Zapins

Save yourself weeks of hassle, money, potential algae problems, explosions and yeast leaks, and just save up for pressurized CO2.

There really is no substitute that even comes close to pressure CO2 in terms of its effect on plants.

DIY is little better than having no CO2 at all. Even flourish excel would be a better choice since it can be dosed with more consistency and less hassle.

DIY CO2 can be fun to set up though and monitor for the first few weeks, but it quickly loses its charm especially with all the potential pitfalls associated with it.

ray-the-pilot

My feeling is that getting into planted aquaria is not a cheap hobby. It's probably not as expensive as golf but pretty close if you don't join a country club!

There is a lot of DIY stuff and some of it will work but you really need to have a lot of up front information and someone to guide you through the rough spots.

I don’t mean to discourage you because this is a rewarding hobby but think of it as a long term investment and get the best you can up front; as it will save you a lot in the long run.

vtchef

Can anyone recommend a website i can order from and what will i need for pressurized co2?

goalcreas

www.aquabuys.com

get this
http://www.aquabuys.com/miva/merchan...roduct_Count=0

it is about as cheap as you will find a package almost complete (less the tank) you will find.

You should be able to get a 2.5lb or 5lb tank from a local weld supply shop or a home brewing store.
Some fire extinguisher places will have them also.

If not there are some online home brewing sites (www.thebeveragefactory.com might be one)
that sell them for good prices.

5lb should cost you about $65 or so. Don't get one if it is over $85 I would say.
I say 2.5lb is an option for you since you have a small tank. I used one on a 29 gallon and got 5 months out of it all the time, so it is enough if you can get one for cheap. Some will say it is too small, but only if having to fill it every 6 months is too much for you, is it too small for you.