How long do they really last?

[ianjoe]

I currently have a 29g tank, with DIY Co2.
I'm thinking of getting a pressurized system.
I was going to go with a 5# tank ($64), but noticed that i could get a 10# for $20 more.
How long will it take before the co2 is exhausted?
Months, years?
Can co2 in the tanks go bad after a period of time?

thanks,
ian

[carpguy]

It depends on the how much you use, but pressurized CO2 usually lasts a while and doesn't go bad in the tank. I've had a 10 lb on my 30g since April doing about 2 bpm and its showing no signs of slowing. I greatly prefer it to DIY CO2 -- very low maintenance once its set, the plants are flourishing and the algae is, for the most part, being kept at bay.

If you have room for the 10, I'd get the 10.

Be sure your KH is at a safe level (at least 3-4 degrees) and be prepared to step up your ferts (assuming you've got the light).

[125gJoe]

The 10lb. can should last your 29 gallon tank a year. Maybe a little more. You will love your pressurized CO2. No messing with mixing stuff again.. :)

[Pink Pat]

I have a 10# tank on my setup, three aquariums, a 55g/40g/29g. My tank will last about 10 months or so and costs $12 to exchange for a full bottle. It truly is a 'set and forget' type of system. Once you have a pressure system, you'll wonder why you ever bothered with anything else.

HTH

PP

[superjohnny]

It just costs ~$200 to set up :(

too many hobbies is the problem.

[plantbrain]

If set up properly, a 10lb tank should last on a 29 gal about 3-4 years.................

Regards,
Tom Barr

[mogurnda]

Just another push for pressurized CO2. Set it up, adjust the bubble rate, and walk away. Come back the next day, it's exactly the same. Want more, less? Turn the knob. No more mixing every few weeks, no more variation depending on the yeasts' mood.