Co2 newbie

[davdandy]

Hi everyone.
I am about to start my first aquascape, although I am not new to fish keeping I am new to keeping plants alive. I never had any success in the past but I didn't know about co2 back then. I've bought a set-up with empty bottle, yes I know it needs refilling 😁, but what else, a diffuser,bubble counter etc and what particular make or model should I choose without resorting to cheap Chinese rip-offs on Amazon.

Thanks in advance, David.

 

[FrozenShivers]

Hi everyone.
I am about to start my first aquascape, although I am not new to fish keeping I am new to keeping plants alive. I never had any success in the past but I didn't know about co2 back then. I've bought a set-up with empty bottle, yes I know it needs refilling 😁, but what else, a diffuser,bubble counter etc and what particular make or model should I choose without resorting to cheap Chinese rip-offs on Amazon.

Thanks in advance, David.

That depends on how you want to set it up. You could use an in-tank diffuser, in-line diffuser, a CO2 reactor. What size is the tank? Bubble counter doesn't play an important role, so brand doesn't matter too much. If you're using an in-tank diffuser then often people pair it with a bubble counter that is attached to the outside of the tank, if you use in-line/CO2 reactor then they usually use one that attaches straight onto your regulator and is visible only when cabinet doors are open.

 

[davdandy]

Thanks, it's a 145 ltr tank. Aqua One.

 

[Miniandy]

I would suggest you spend some time on YouTube. Look for guides from the likes of George Farmer, MJ Aquascaping or Greenaqua.

All three have good CO2 guides and will cover diffusers, bubble counters, non return valves which you will need in addition to the regulator, solenoid, needle valves and bottle that you already have.

If you have a canister filter I would suggest an inline diffuser. I think an in tank diffuser would be too small and ineffective in a 145l aquarium.

I bought an all in one kit, so can't help with particulars. However, I would buy Co2 Art and or source from Aquariumgardens.co.uk if I had to buy replacements.