co2 system

[carrcn]

Okay, I've finally figured out all the components I'm going to need to hook up co2 into my tank. Basically, I'm going to need: regulator, bubble counter, needle valve, pH controller, solenoid, reactor and of course a tank.

Now, I'd like some input on which reactor works best. I've looked at a Rio50 Powerhead and an Aquamedic co2 reactor 1000. Ideally, I'd like the one that works the quickest. My pH locally runs around 8.2, and I'd like to get it down to around 6.5-7.0 so I can start keeping discus. But if I do a weekly 25-50% water change, I don't have any way of putting the same lower pH back into the tank. I'd like to stick tap water back into the tank and have the co2 lower the pH back down. Just wondering how long it takes the reactors to bring the pH levels down.

Don't necessarily need to stick with either of these choices if there's a better option available. Comments are greatly appreciated.

 

[sn8k]

Discus won't react well to pH fluctuations and what you are suggesting to do will cause undo stress to them. I would highly suggest that if you are set on lowering your pH, to get a holding vessle (tank, new plastic garbage can, rain barrel, ect.) and age your water 24 hours and after that period, using chemicals to lower the pH value of the aged water to match that of the tank. All you will need is a holding tank of the correct size, a submesable heater, and airstone (to keep the water in the tank in motion), and for the real lazy ppl out there like myself - a submersable pump on a switch and DIY PVC return pipe to the tank so that all you have to do is test the water, match it to your tank, and then flip a switch to fill your main tank. Easie peesie

BTW: I would make sure your water is buffered correctly to allow for a stable pH.

HTH

Mark K

 

[Bangin]

I have this one: http/aquariumplant.com/cgi-bin/cart/pr009.html

It works well for me!

My tap PH is very close to aquarium PH after CO2 injection, so I really cannot comment on quickness.

 

[carrcn]

Well, that's why I don't like using chemicals to lower pH. After a couple of days it just goes back up if you don't have your water buffered, which I'm not going to do at the time. I know discus are susceptible to pH fluctuations, but I was hoping to find out that the reactors will take care of it quickly enough that I don't have to worry about it. Even if I have to add it 5 gallons or so at a time to keep it from fluctuating too greatly.

I just wasn't wanting to get another holding tank to put somewhere. But a submersible does sound interesting. I would just need another reactor and a splitter for my co2 and put it in a holding tank. Damn this is getting expensive. I'll think about this if I find out the co2 won't lower the pH quickly enough. If no one else knows how quickly they react, I may end up trying it on my 55 sometime. Thanks.