New to Co2

[West1]

Hello Plant Keepers. I have a 50gl corner tank (guessing as the front is bowed) and it is 24" tall. I have a __?__ size Co2 cylinder. Since this is my first set up, can you guys please help me determine if the parts are good? I have not connected the Solenoid yet as I don't know what to look for or know how to use the system. With the pics given, can you Gurus please ID what I have and if its a good brand?

I have been reading in this site non stop for the past few days. Lots of info here I must say.









This is the tank I would like to set up w/Co2. Currently housed w/Oddball Clown Loaches and 3 Temp exodons


RenaX3 with 2 24" PC 65 watt bulbs (or could use single fixture w/2 36" T5 10K but I think it might be over kill)

Im looking towards Baby Tears and something else (im sure my green eye will grow as I get better at the Co2 scene)

My other question is...

1) to start a planted tank with a currently stocked tank is done how? Drain the tank, add fertz, sand and then my gravel... fill up the tank again w/cycled filter?

2) Since adding the gravel and Manzanita Wood, my PH has dropped .8 and is currently at 7.2-7.4. It was 8.2 last week b4 the gravel/wood. Will my PH drop more with a Co2 System (Tank has been running exactly the same for over 2 years w/50% weekly water changes as a bare bottom grow out tank for my 300gl)?

3) I keep reading every system is designed different or X Company makes the regulators etc.. to your needs... As a newb, how the heck do I know exactly what system/set up works for me

Thanks for looking and Thanks for any replys/comments/concerns

[Darkblade48]

Your CO2 cylinder appears to be a 10 pound cylinder.

The regulator you have appears to be a single stage, single gauge regulator. You may want to upgrade to a dual gauge regulator so that you can tell how much CO2 gas you have remaining in your cylinder. Alternatively, you could upgrade to a dual stage regulator (this is different from dual gauge).

The solenoid appears to be fine for use.

You will also need a needle valve so that you can control your CO2 to a finer degree.

For more information regarding pressurized CO2 and parts, please take a look at the CO2 guide that I have written (it is linked in my signature).

As for your other questions, to start a planted aquarium, you do not need to drain the aquarium. If you are using gravel, it is fine as well; you do not need sand. Fertilizers (substrate fertilizers) can be added in even with water in the aquarium, if you wish.

CO2 will drop your pH slightly, but this is not of concern, as pH changes that are caused by CO2 will not harm livestock.

In terms of different pressurized CO2 systems, as you have realized, there are many different companies out there that provide similar products. You just need to do your research before making a purchase so that you know how to use it, etc.

[West1]

Thank you for the information. I will look into a dual stage regulator.

Ive been browsing your link after link and there is a lot of answered questions. I PM'ed myself with very helpful links... Thank You for the direction