Co2 Systems Are A Pain :)

[phlawed]

do i just divide it by 17.9 for degrees kh?? for instance my test strips show Alkalinity ppm at 250. it was 140 a few days ago. Co2 has started today. should i just see what happens in the next few days to level itself out or lower the diffusion pump. Also i am getting an excess of tiny bubbles on the top of my water. Is this normal for planted tanks.

 

[kenneth_kpe]

hmm as far as i know if you dont add additives to raise or lower KH it should not change with co2 injection PH is the one that will change.

 

[phlawed]

hmm as far as i know if you dont add additives to raise or lower KH it should not change with co2 injection PH is the one that will change.

ph is holding good around 7.0-7.2 i have too many questions about his co2 system blah and nobody uses co2 systems on here so im screwed for now unless it is running correctly which i dont think it is.

 

[phlawed]

ok think i got it running now after taking it apart and moving the location of the reactor body. i was expecting a steady stream of bubbles though and its still not doing that.

 

[riverman444]

Are you using a DIY system? If so, you will see variations in your Ph readings.....usually peaking at lights out and at lights on. Takes tests before you go to bed and then one first thing in the morning and you will see what I mean without a lengthy explanation.

As far as the bubbles on top of the water, CO2 breaks up rapidly once it hits the surface which is why we have to use diffusers. These bubbles you are talking about may be from something else. Do they cling together or just pop? Are you using an airstone too?

Also, many of us use CO2 systems on here. I use 3, to be exact. 1 on a 20 gallon, 1 on another 20 gallon, and 1 on a HEAVILY carpeted 10 gallon shrimp tank.


There are some good "pinned" articles at the top of this section about CO2 and whatnot. Check them out.