How long will co2 tank last?

I've had my 5lb tank running at slightly more than a bubble a second since New Years (I literally had to run out on Dec 30th to grab another bottle). Its still going strong right now.

-Richer
 
Thats pretty cool guys, I guess Ill do the 5lb bottle. Anyone have a good link for DIY valves and things? I dont know the first thing about what hooks onto the bottle (besides a line going to the aquarium!) but Id imagine theres more to it.
 
You will need a 5 lb cylinder and regulator that are both designed for c02. You can get both at Rapids wholesalers for $100. Ask Skittyfish how she likes hers.
Then you need to get a needle valve from clippard and you'll be set.
You'll take c02 line from the regulator to the needle valve. Then after the needle valve, you'll run more co2 line into your reactor, which you can build yourself. Or you can run the line into a powerhead as well. Anything to break up the bubbles.
 
Here is a link to the a description of the set up that hatton3 is talking about. http://www.dlink.org/aqua/CO2.html
I found that everything he describes here works well, except for the needle valve he uses from Home Depot. It's not very accurate compared to Clippard's and takes too much tinkering with. The other items from Home Depot are fine.
On the end of the system I use a Hagen's 402 Power Head as a reactor. Works great in my 55. If your tank is smaller, use a smaller power head.
Len
 
Yeah, Clippards needle valve is much better, and they are very helpful! I bought a reactor for the outside of the tank, there is a picture with the rest of pics if you want to look at it.

I will be glad to take a pic of how I put it all together if you need.
 
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