On The Verge Of Buying Pressurised Co2 System - What Tests?

[Deleted member 107737]

Hi All,
 
So im on the verge of buying  a pressureised co2 system ( jbl with solenoid).
 
When I have it all set up, the bit im not sure about about is what tests i have to do and when.
 
Can someone explain what checks ( test kits ) i have to do and how often...
 
e.g. co2, ph etc
 
Thanks,

dave

 

[Livewire88]

You will need a drop checker, some 4dKH solution and Bromo Blue. 
 
You will need to put some 4dKH solution in the drop checker along with 4-5 drops of Bromo Blue, once your Co2 is running the fluid in the drop checker will start off blue, once the Co2 level rises the fluid will start to turn green once the fluid turns a lime green you are at the optimum level of Co2, If the fluid turns yellow there is to much Co2 in your tank and life stock will be at risk. 
 
Also you will want a timer switch to run the solenoid.
 
Have a good read of this thread, it covers about everything you need to know about pressurized Co2 

 
http/www.fishforums.net/index.php?/topic/416755-pressurized-co2-equipment-flow-and-fertilization/
 
Feel free to ask questions about anything you are unsure of. 

 

[josh63762]

may I make a suggestion? my go and buy a pressurized one when u can make a diy one and it literally costs much much less! to maintain and Construct!

 

[mike455555]

dont buy branded when you can just yes a fire extingusher! (theres a guide on the forums) i'll dig it up for you, but FE costs about £150 banded costs £500 for the same size 

here http/www.fishforums.net/index.php?/topic/400244-video-how-to-setup-a-fire-extinguisher-system/

 

[zoopkamol]

once setup on pressurized co2...gonna need to start dosing ferts also. alot now use dry ferts(cheaper) and do EI dosing.
 
plants flourish nicely if you follow a good dosing schedule and water changes.
does take a bit of time to set co2 just right. once you find the magic "lime green" leave your co2 alone ...dont want to start a yo-yo effect of concetrations.
might need to adjust co2 once plant growth increases.
 
best thing I did for my plants was pressurized co2.
 
TomBarr explains EI dosing just google it and research options
good luck

 

[mike455555]

EL doesing is great and as said cheaper 

 

[Deleted member 107737]

Thankyou