Do you use check valve on the pressurized CO2 tubing ?

[Ironfin]

Is regular aquarium air line check valve good enough to be used on the pressurized CO2 tubing between the aquarium and Co2 regulator. I heard that it can do a lot of damage to the CO2 regulator and the CO2 tank if the water is suck back towards the CO2 tank when it is empty. What is your opinion ?

Thanks.

[Rolo]

I just spent $140 for a new pressurized system. I wouldn't trust it to a $2 check valve. I ordered this one off ebay. Dennerle is a german company that makes quality CO2 equipment. In a few days when it comes I can tell you how it is like.

[Rex Grigg]

I use a Clippard check valve that screws right into my needle valve. Only runs me about $3.

[Ironfin]

Thanks to you,

Rolo,
I heard of this German brand and trusted it is of excellent quality. I will consider this as one of my options.

Rex,
This seems to be a good quality check valve. Where did you get it for $3.00 if you have got it not long ago.

Thanks again.

[Rolo]

Rex, there are many check valves, what is the model number you're using? Can any of those check valves fit anywhere to a Milwaukee? I assume a Clippard needle valve is required.

Ironfin, look up a local supplier off their website - www.clippard.com. I found one and he was able to order virtually any Clippard part made.

[Ironfin]

Hi Chris,

I am also wondering which one Rex uses as I have a JBJ regulator which might be different from yours regarding the needle valves. I will see if there is one made by them that you can install in line (in the middle of two CO2 tubings like the regular air line hose check valve.). That might be easier to fit.

[Rex Grigg]

As I recall the model # is MCV-1, look at the Clippard on-line catalog. If your needle valve uses 10-32 threads you should find something to work. Otherwise you can order the check valve and some nipples and run it in-line on your tubing.

[Ironfin]

Thanks Rex. Sound like a great option. Now I have to search for some of those parts in Canada.

[Rex Grigg]

Ironfin: Go to www.clippard.com and look for distributors in Canada.

Rolo: Not sure if they will fit the Milwaukee or not since I have never used one. If the needle valve is removable then they should fit since the standard for micro sized air fittings is 10-32 thread. If not you could put it in the tubing.

[Ironfin]

I have just found out from another post that the JBJ regulator comes with the built-in check valve in the bubble counter so I do not need another one. I guess it does not hurt to have another one for extra safety reason but I will make use of the built-in one for now. Thanks again.

[Rolo]

I know you already have the built in check valve, but just becuase I said I would...

Got my Dennerle check valve today. Everything on the box is in German, but thankfully the instructions are also in English. It gives you detailed instructions on proper installation. Looks to be of decent quality for a plastic valve, and it even has screw on caps on each end where the tubing goes - similar to the way the hosing is connected to the Milwaukee regulator. It molds the tubing to the connection nipple so it's extremely air tight. They also recommend testing it every two years and tell you how so you know it is in good service.

[Ironfin]

Hi Chris, Thanks for the info on your new valve. I do look at the external valve as a second safety measure and I do not mind using it on top of the built-in one. I might buy either the Clippard valve or the Dennerle valve in the near future. Thanks again.