Co2 Equipment Advice

[SuperColey1]

You got me all wrong when i said you remind me of my son meant that your kid reminds me of my son now 11 when he was at your kids age he was doing the same and now he still likes to play around with dials, computers, and everything that has buttons on it

Sorry misunderstood you here. apologies

Plants can benefit from CO2 regardless of it being injected from a pressurized system or a DIY,and regardless of tank size. The fish give off CO2 as well, something I've noticed people forget to consider. In the real world, CO2 levels are much lower than your tanks. Too much tech dependency is a bad thing. I use DIY CO2 and pressurized CO2 but moderately and sparingly. I depend on nature to do most of the job. Have done this from the start and never had any problems that I see most of you are having.

SuperColey1, your idea on the bubble counter is rightfully justifiable. Each person has different views and needs so do as you please. I may not be much of help due to the fact that I am in Japan. I do however would suggest CO2 glass diffuser with the bubble counter built into it. This will all go straight into your tank so there won't be anything hanging outside ( for safety reasons as you stated and went through that with my son as well ) except the hose and your DIY bottles. Price range are within your reach. ADA has this. As for other manufacturer’s, I don't know.

The slimy substance issue is due to the sodium that you add in the mixture which is supposedly acting as a buffer to extend the yeasts life. According to the article I read and have tried, by not adding sodium, the slimy substance disappeared. If you are adding sodium, this may be the cause. If not, there must be something else giving you problems. DIY CO2 is not an exact science. Water conditions, temp, and other things contribute to how the mixture will work, last and react like the slimy substance.

All the best !

I think I mentioned earlier on this thread about 2 Nutrafins plus an overstocked tank, but you are right. A lot of people seem to forget that fish produce Co2 even if it is a small amount.
The white gunk (slime) on the ladder can't be from the sodium buffer because I don't use a sodium buffer. just sugar, yeast and water.

It seems to be a common problem with DIY Co2 that a lot of gunk is caused by the CO2 on the point of entry to the tank (i.e. the ladder, and the external bubble counter would hopefully stop this )

 

[SNAIL]

Themuleous (Sam) suggested using a seperate bubble counter.
I have also read that this works well and a lot of people have reported success with it.
It didn't work for me but it might work for you. I must have something wrong somewhere.

Slimy substance issue has been around since I started this hobby, about 10 years ago.
Another article stated its a form of bacteria. All reports though point that it dosen't seem to be harmful.

I encourage you take what Sam suggested. Yes, do the ladder first with the external bubble counter as you said.
If it fails, go with the external bubble counter and a glass diffuser or the beetle.
I use both forms of CO2, pressurized in the winter as DIY is affected by temperature
and DIY in the summer as I don't want a pressurized tank in my house during the summer
(It's very hot here in Japan during the summer).
I will try it again with a seperate bubble counter this summer and I hope I get it right.

My fingers are crossed for you and I hope it'll work for me too.