Nutrafin CO2 system
- Thread starter sardesign
- Start date
It's no different from a DIY yeast project, though the ladder diffuser ain't bad. If you're not a DIY type of person or don't have a place to hide the reaction chamber, then the Nutrafin CO2 unit is a good choice.
Don't buy the replacement reagents though, they're a rip-off. Using regular yeast and baking soda is much cheaper.
Don't buy the replacement reagents though, they're a rip-off. Using regular yeast and baking soda is much cheaper.
Thanks,
I don't have a place to hide the reactor. I know with pressurized CO2 I can send it through my Canister filter, but I didn't think I could do that with the DIY. If I can, then I would love to do that, but I'm not quite sure how (if it is possible).
I don't have a place to hide the reactor. I know with pressurized CO2 I can send it through my Canister filter, but I didn't think I could do that with the DIY. If I can, then I would love to do that, but I'm not quite sure how (if it is possible).
Actually, when I said the reaction chamber I meant the container where the yeast is mixed with the sugar and generates the CO2 (like a 2litre bottle), and not the reactor/diffusor that breaks up the CO2 bubbles.
As for the reactor, you can simply run the tube into your canister's intake. Its more efficient than the ladder that the ladder diffuser that comes with the Nutrafin kit. The ladder does look cool though
As for the reactor, you can simply run the tube into your canister's intake. Its more efficient than the ladder that the ladder diffuser that comes with the Nutrafin kit. The ladder does look cool though
I'd be concerned about damaging the filter if you inject the Co2 directly into it. I've heard it can damage the impeller but I don't think some are better than others.
You can also make an inline reactor that connects to the return tube of your canister. The CO2 mixes with the water before going in the tank, very effective I've heard.
Similar to this one
You can also make an inline reactor that connects to the return tube of your canister. The CO2 mixes with the water before going in the tank, very effective I've heard.
Similar to this one
Thanks again... one last question... the instructions that the bubble counter the system comes with says it has to be submerged. Does it have to be? I would prefer to rig it so both canisters are in my cabinet and the only thing visible would be the line into the tank. I've seen that DIY reactor and I plan on making one... however, I'm still a bit unsure on how to setup the bubble counter between the reactor and the CO fermentation tank. Any suggestions?
The nutrafin's bubble counter (that ladder thing) is also the diffuser and that's why it needs to be submerged. If you are planning to using a DIY reactor then the bubble counter is useless, it can't be modified to work with another reactor/diffuser.
If you're hiding the fermentation canister and aren't planning to use the bubble counter/diffuser, then I'd say the nutrafin system would be a waste of money. Because that's really the 2 main draws of the system, an inconspicuous fermentation canister and the ladder diffuser.
If you're hiding the fermentation canister and aren't planning to use the bubble counter/diffuser, then I'd say the nutrafin system would be a waste of money. Because that's really the 2 main draws of the system, an inconspicuous fermentation canister and the ladder diffuser.
TheMightyQueenPixie
Best Invention EVER!
I use the same little set up and I have been really happy with the results...The ladder thingy is not so obvious when installed and you can always camo it with a taller growing plant...The one thing I did find out (on AC of course) was that the "activator" is just plain yeast and the "stabilizer" is good old baking soda...Save yourself a ton of dough and dont buy their 3 packs.
Thanks... I just built the reactor and I think it's going to be as easy as just using a big 2 liter soda bottle, a bubble counter, and my DIY reactor. Since that system is virtually the same thing (from what I gather so far), it would be pointless for me to even bother buying it because I want to hide as much as possible. Thanks again!!!
I would reccomend it, but it's pricey -- $40 a refill every few weeks. If you're looking for CO2 for your 20 gals I would go either DIY or a pressurized system that branches into both, or -- depending on your WPG -- liquid CO2 ferts. For the 100gal I would have a pressurized system with a branch to opposite ends of the tank.
And if you wanna make a cheap, easy , and effective diffuser just take a small gravel vac, stuff it 1/2 full with a fine sponge and attach the CO2 line.
And if you wanna make a cheap, easy , and effective diffuser just take a small gravel vac, stuff it 1/2 full with a fine sponge and attach the CO2 line.