Co2 Systems

[Rodders]

Maybe a stupid question, but why do the smaller co2 systems not have solenoid valves? 
 
Looking to set two systems up on different tanks, a 60 and 180ltr, so if I used the disposable bottle ones, I would have to turn them on/off each day.
 
I assume there is no reason to not put a solenoid yourself in, just seems odd they don't come with them?

 

[DrRob]

Expense.
 
There are some that run CO2 24/7, reckoning that it's either simpler, or creates stable levels. The lost CO2 is sometimes cheaper than adding a solenoid, particularly in a small tank.
 
Small systems tend to be for small tanks, so the CO2 lost overnight is a tiny amount, plus the disposable cylinders are the main profit drivers, rather than the kits themselves, so there's little drive to reduce usage.

 

[Rodders]

Hmmm, don't know whether to put a solenoid on the small one or not.
 
Might just buy bits and make up my own system, instead of buying a kit.

 

[DrRob]

It'll save you a lot of money in the long run.

 

[Rodders]

Yeah, ill probably go for a couple of sodastream set ups

 

[DrRob]

For cost I'd recommend looking at fire extinguisher, pub cylinder or paintball tanks, depending on what you can acquire.
 
Welding gas set ups aren't quite as cheap but aren't bad.
 
Most disposable cylinder set ups otherwise run to the expensive, as profit for the makers is based on selling cartridges for them.

 

[Rodders]

Went for a couple of ~500g (welding bottles) disposable bottle setups.