CO2 Injection

I am not going to get into the fight of to turn of or not but i do know that if you opt to turn it off at night do not use a valve either remove the tube from the tank or disconnect it if you trap the co2 with a valve some thing will pop maybe a tube but if a bottle pops it will make a huge mess and might be dangerous
 
I don't think there's any reason to disconnect a DIY setup, unless the pH drops too low. Plants can release oxygen in light or dark regardless of the CO2 concentration. Plants need light to absorb and process CO2, so turning off a pressurized supply at night will conserve CO2 while the plants aren't using it. Theoretically, turning the system off can prevent pH drops at night, but I've read several reports of people claiming that the shift was more drastic when switched on and off. With a DIY system, it seems like too much hassle to mess with anyway since it can't be automated.
 
I've just started a 5 1/2 gallon plant-only tank and I also would like some consensus. I've read this entire thread, and needless to say my head is spinning. Since my tank is without fish, I'm not planning on monitoring any levels.

Can someone recommend a starter recipe? I'm planning on using bread yeast, as I have no idea where to get the champagne. What is the purpose of using jello, does it last longer? I didn't see any additional posts answering how often you need to make a new mix... or change it... what do you do, and when? If it stops bubbling air into your tank? Are we talking weeks, or months?

I have bigger thick cat-litter containers I'm planning on using. I have check valves, did I read correctly that this should be placed closer to the tank? Also, instead of cutting the plug-end of the heater off, you could use a razor-knife and cut a slot into the plastic, where the lid screws on? Then you could goop silicone around it, let it cure, then goop around the lid and seal.

I have an extra heater, tubing, silicone, airstone, all I need is some tried-and-tested info. Oh, another thing, if you're afraid of it busting/overflowing, couldn't you set the entire thing into a garbage can? That way, less to clean up.

Thanks for anything and everything...
 
just was reading about diy CO2
cool
you folks do realize that you are making wine this way right or beer
they both are made this way
so if i start my five gallons of homemade beer i can use the co2 that comes off of it to help my plants
and the fish and plants i can watch while drinking the beer i made last month
i love my hobby's and each helps the others
 
I hope someone answers soon, I'd like to start....
 
Thanks... now where's that aspirin?! :help:
 
Well, after deciding to attempt a homemade reactor, then being thoroughly confused, I decided NOT to make a yeast reactor yesterday in disgust. Then, i am paging through a catalog last night, and I see this:

Natural Aquarium Vital

No need for CO2 cylinders, controllers, or monitors. Reduces the need for fertilization. 16 oz. bottle will treat a 50 gallon tank for up to 3 months.

Hello? Why haven't I heard of this?! This is much simpler, no... anyone have any opinions on it?
 
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