Starting CO2 injection for first time

[Octavarium]

Well I decided it's finally time. I already have some umbrella plants and Amazon Sword in my tank, and they're not doing too bad...but growth is definitely stunted. I will search for foreground plants to add this week. Any recommendations?

Im hooking the regulator with solenoid up to a timer with my lights, and using a 5 lb. CO2 tank. Whats the ballpark on how long this would last in a 55g? Im thinking(hoping) more than 3 months. Also what is the preferable pH drop I am looking for, is it a full point drop when adequate CO2 is in the water?

 

[Nolapete]

1 full point is about right. I have a 10lb tank that I've been running for 3 months and I can't even tell that it's been used. It takes a long time to drain a tank at 1-5 bubbles per minute. A 5 lb tank will last you at least 6 months or longer from what I've seen.

I leave my CO2 on 24/7 and so does Mgamer2000 with no problems whatsoever. I like it running all the time because there's no wasted time getting it up to the right level after the lights come on. I have a pretty heavy fish load and none of them show any signs of stress whatsoever.

 

[livingword26]

My 5 lb tank has run 5 months so far and the gauge has not moved yet. I agree with Nolapet's assessment.