Need a quick awnser please.another question!

[matt s]

Im doing DIY Co2 for a 48 gallon. I have 2-2 liter bottles I will be diffusing it with an airstone up into my HOB filter. My question is should I start both bottles now or wait how long apart? One other thing is Whats the best mix to use and how often should I change?Also do I have to have a bubble counter with DIY? Thanks!

[mpodolan]

For a 48 gallon, you might need even more than the 2 2-liters. I'd say start them together and see how much co2 it provides for your tank. Do an advanced search for DIY co2 mixtures. There are tons of opinions on that issue

[dmbProducts]

If you don't mind spending a couple of dollars, Petsmart has CO2 refills 3 per pack for around 7 bucks. Last 3 months per mixture. I currently use it on one of my 30g, works well.

All you need is pure cane sugar, and add in the petsmart mixture.
Here is a link for the complete kit, however you will only be needing the refills.
http://www.petsmart.com/product/inde...earch&keepsr=1

Refills can be had at;
http://www.arcatapet.com/item.cfm?cat=11134

As far as starting them, I would start one, then one week later start the second as they deplete you will have about one week to start a second batch without interuptions.
DIY fermentataion normally takes about a day or so to get going, depending on room temp etc..

[matt s]

OK I just tested my Bubble per minute coming out of the end of the tube and it was 28. I took off the airstone to get the count. Is it me or is this to high? could it cause damage to my fish.

[eyebeatbadgers]

Originally Posted by dmbProducts

If you don't mind spending a couple of dollars, Petsmart has CO2 refills 3 per pack for around 7 bucks. Last 3 months per mixture. I currently use it on one of my 30g, works well.

All you need is pure cane sugar, and add in the petsmart mixture.
Here is a link for the complete kit, however you will only be needing the refills.
http://www.petsmart.com/product/inde...earch&keepsr=1

Refills can be had at;
http://www.arcatapet.com/item.cfm?cat=11134

As far as starting them, I would start one, then one week later start the second as they deplete you will have about one week to start a second batch without interuptions.
DIY fermentataion normally takes about a day or so to get going, depending on room temp etc..

I'd say those refill packs are overpriced yeast, and stabilizer is baking soda?? Whatever it is, yeast is cheaper from the grocery store, and is effective.

Originally Posted by matt s

OK I just tested my Bubble per minute coming out of the end of the tube and it was 28. I took off the airstone to get the count. Is it me or is this to high? could it cause damage to my fish.

Bubble count is measured through a bubble counter. Therefore, bubble count varies from tank to tank and isn't a reliable way to measure CO2. A drop checker is a reliable way however.

I would start 2 2 liter bottles today, and 2 more next week, and change them out after 14 days of use. This may provide enough CO2 if you diffuse your gas properly. I'll guarantee you that you won't kill your fish with two bottles in a 48 gallon tank.

I've used limewood airstones for a while, as they are superior to regular airstones. I now use my canister filter to diffuse the gas, and it is even more efficient.