How long can a 2l CO2 canister last?

[cairocks]

I am currently using DIY CO2 for my 2ft (20G) tank and I redo the yeast solution every 2 weeks to endure that the CO2 supply does not stop. As I have recently greatly increased the light level of the tank and added in quite a number of plants into the tank, I am considering upgrading to canister CO2 so that the supply is more consistent and to avoid the outbreak of algae. As the market has 2l to 5l canister sizes, I am wondering how long a 2L canister can last assuming I set it to 2 bubbles/sec. I have seen an offer at a LFS with something like 2l canister + regulator + check valve +diffuser for under $200 (actual items need to recheck with them). Wish bros/sis here with experience on canister CO2 could give me some advice. Thanks.

[|squee|]

Glad you're coming over to the cylinder side

A typical C02 cylinder (not cannistor lah ) can last you for about 1 year (mine's at 1 bubble per 4 seconds, and it's still not empty after one year).

I'd say go with a 5L one if you have the space, reason is it'll be a very very long time before you'll have to refill.

You could try buying the set that comprises of:

1) The cylinder itself
2) 2-gauge regulator (non-manual) do not get the one where there's a knob for you to adjust the output pressure
3) Electronic solenoid
4) Bubble counter

Don't forget you will also need to get a reactor/diffusor.

[benny]

Having a pressurized CO2 cylinder system does take a lot of maintenance work out of the hobby. You don't have to monitor it as closely. Obviously, the initial start up cost is higher, but compared to say 5 to 10 years ago, it's relatively cheaper now. There are even packaged deals from brands like Dymax now.

Cheers,

[cairocks]

Thanks for the replies. Been surfing through the web and think I need to clarify some points. From some posting, I gather that there is this 'needle valve' to accurately control the flow of CO2. Does the electronic solenoid or regulator does the same function or is the needle valve another piece of add-on? Also, there is something call a ph-controller too. I seems to gather that it is something that control the CO2 flow to maintain a stable ph value. Is it a 'nice to have' thing rather than a necessary thing? It seems to be a rather expensive piece of equipment.
Thanks

P.S. Oops.. Think this thread may be better fit in the 'Equipment and Accessories' section. Moderators, please move it over there if you deem fit. Thanks.

[juggler]

Having a pressurized CO2 cylinder system does take a lot of maintenance work out of the hobby. You don't have to monitor it as closely. Obviously, the initial start up cost is higher, but compared to say 5 to 10 years ago, it's relatively cheaper now. There are even packaged deals from brands like Dymax now.

Cheers,

Plus there's a healthy resale market for these things. And the depreciation is not as bad as the investment in your glass fish tank. Worse case still got scrap value if the karang-guni man wants it.

[|squee|]

Thanks for the replies. Been surfing through the web and think I need to clarify some points. From some posting, I gather that there is this 'needle valve' to accurately control the flow of CO2. Does the electronic solenoid or regulator does the same function or is the needle valve another piece of add-on?

If you but the JBJ regulator and solenoid combo, the needle valve is attached already. Not sure about the rest though, and I know needle valves can be individually bought. A good LFS should know about this.

Also, there is something call a ph-controller too. I seems to gather that it is something that control the CO2 flow to maintain a stable ph value. Is it a 'nice to have' thing rather than a necessary thing? It seems to be a rather expensive piece of equipment.
Thanks

IMO, it's a nice thing to have , but then again I do not have any experience of it. Somebody else should be able to comment

[tawauboy]

a needle valve is essential for fine co2 flow control.
a ph controller is a nice to have item. when you have a ph controller, you don't control co2 injection via a timer anymore. the ph controller will control the solenoid directly and can maintain the co2 level within +/-0.1 ph value.