How Much Co2

[carpking]

Hi All

Im trying to get my head round CO2 and before i commit to a system i will ask the odd silly question.

how do i know how much CO2 i need in my tank (bubble counter can anyone explain)

my tank is 180l but i treat it as 150l after substrate etc etc

Thanks in advance

 

[levahe]

You need a drop checker to measure the amount of co2 in your water, a bubble counter is more of a visual aid and the bubble rate actually varies between different manufacturers. You can also use a regular liquid pH test kit to determine your co2 levels.

For a 180l tank you will need a decent sized co2 set up because you will go through a lot of gas, a 2 kg fire extinguisher will probably last a few months. Most off the shelf kits come with 500g or less bottles which won't last long.

You also need to think about flow, the recommended amount of flow is 10x the volume of your tank so that's 1800lph you would need. If your filter doesnt have that kind of output you can use powerheads or circulation pumps.

There is a good guide here http/www.fishforums.net/index.php?/topic/416755-pressurized-co2-equipment-flow-and-fertilization/

 

[BerryAttack]

i usually do a one bubble every one to three seconds, and when night time comes i put on a very small out put bubblier... had some scares in the past and almost gassed the fish.. so this is just my safety precaution. 
i do not have a power head, but have a external filter (65 gallon tank)... this trick i learned is to attach the hose which leads the CO2 into the tank and put it into the intake of the filter.. will only work if external, not hang on... this'll keep all the CO2 in the tank, until it makes it way out.. and my tank has flourish.. was my first dirt/CO2 tank.... and the plant growth is amazing! 
just the thing is when using CO2 you'll need to have good ferts in your tank (hint dirt tank) or your plants wont look to hot.

 

[SO19Firearms]

upto 30ppm - Get a drop checker