DIY CO2 HOB Filter Diffusion

park83

park83

AC Members
Dec 2, 2006
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central PA
I've seen a lot on using the intake of a canister filter to diffuse DIY CO2, but how about using a HOB filter for that? Basically i'm trying to decide which setup would be most efficient (or if there is something else i should use):

(tank is 29 gal and filter is Marineland Emperor 280)

1. airstone sitting at bottom of tank (currently what i'm running)
2. C02 tube inserted into intake of filter
3. CO2 tube with airstone inserted into intake(strainer) of filter

Opinions are welcome!
 
Ive been having the same issue as you and basically gave up. I have a 29g with a Marineland Penguin 200 HOB Filter. I tried several different ways to diffuse (airstone, powerhead reactor) but never got good CO2 levels. What Ive found out is that with the HOB filter there is too much water movement on the surface so the CO2 degases.
 
hmm...

I havent measured levels yet. The DIY system has only been in place for about 1 week. I have noticed slightly better growth in that time, however, just yesterday, noticed a little more algae than I like. I don't mind some algae, but it really bugs me when it gets on the leaves of plants.
 
Ramphonic - do you measure enough to know what gave you the best levels?

Just wanna take the best shot at it that i can!
 
I was using one of these

The powerhead DIY reactor seemed to be the best.. Not sure where I found the instructions to make it.

219p9O4662L._SL500_AA300_.jpg
 
Would not insert CO2 tubing into filter intake as such will decrease the amount O2 meant for much needed AEROBIC nitrifying bacteria.

That CO2 test kit (pic) is nothing more than pH test kit. High [CO2] will display yellow color and blue for low [CO2]
You will obtain same results with standard pH test kit.

I dont know if it is worth for 29G and for CO2 level which can easily diffuse out of water with surface agitation, look into ampules kit for more accurate CO2 reading, if desired. IMO, NO need.

Try to inject CO2 using norprene/Neopren/Silicone tubing on the output side of filter provided current does not agitate the surface too much (Can fill the tank to max). Should cut the flow during daytime (duration of CO2 Injection) and increase back to full flow during night time.

Even DIY CO2 reactor (any container with in/out nipples + CO2 nipple) )should work with small PH. You can even DIY bubble counter if you wish but Cheap ceramic CO2 diffuser should be easily obtained (Look into JBJ).
 
Cerianthus said:
Would not insert CO2 tubing into filter intake as such will decrease the amount O2 meant for much needed AEROBIC nitrifying bacteria.
Click to expand...

CO2 and O2 do not compete. Plenty of people diffuse CO2 through a filter. I have done it through a canister myself.
 
I have a red sea reactor 500

it is a small powerhead with an attached canister that creates an inclosed vortex.. the co2 is fed into the vortex, and almost completely dissolved. I occasionaly see a few tiny bubbles, but not always. its pretty effecient and saves co2.
 
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