Today we are unboxing and setting up a very interesting cheap CO2 system. I have never seen anything like this before! This is where I bought it bit.ly/3JKBUGI Unfortunately I couldn't find a link for all my US followers. I'm surprised that this is not available on Amazon? Equipment I like to use (affiliate links) Tank US: bit.ly/3EbkdxH EU: bit.ly/3S3y9ht Light US: bit.ly/3S2WxjC EU: bit.ly/3z6R16F Filter US: bit.ly/3yxFttR EU: bit.ly/3eoYxUn Clear Filter Pipes US: bit.ly/3RsFJkT EU: bit.ly/3AL5oyv Substrate US: bit.ly/3bux8yR EU: bit.ly/3qhHDt4 Wood (similar) US: bit.ly/3VmDUJ0 EU: bit.ly/3MwgKfm Rocks (similar) US: bit.ly/3yAO7Yk EU: bit.ly/3Tn0tLX Dwarf Hairgrass (Eleocharis parvula) US: bit.ly/3VsJIR5 Umbrella Hair Grass (Eleocharis Vivipara) US: bit.ly/3MpO9br Riccardia moss US: bit.ly/3SR3Zy9 Juncus repens US: bit.ly/3yyJjmo Crypt parva US: bit.ly/3Cs0APn Crypt lutea US: bit.ly/3yBGDo7 Crypt walkeri US: bit.ly/3rSxBzu 🚨Watch this next!🚨 Inspiration playlist! ua-cam.com/play/PLrlvf56gZy-ipL3105SdfKsUBrMUSttoh.html CO2 buying guide! ua-cam.com/video/dIVrr1yS3sU/v-deo.html How to SETUP your CO2! ua-cam.com/video/qSHZ4F2PI2o/v-deo.html Simple fertilizer dosing! ua-cam.com/video/I_KBOUM1RXM/v-deo.html 👉🏻Cool Aquascaping T-shirts: mosscotton.com/ Code: mjaqua10 👉🏻Be sure to SUBSCRIBE to my UA-cam channel: UA-cam.com/mjaquascaping 👉🏻 Use Code ''MJAMSTERDAM'' for 10% off Fzone products #plantedtank #aquascape #mjaquascaping
I replaced the top part with an autodoser that screws in in place of the control valve, now I can turn it on and of and control the amount remotely/set proper timers
What a fascinating little contraption. Looks way more straightforward than the DIY kits with two soda bottles and is also quite a bit cheaper than the Steel Generator systems are these days. Good find! I was also pleased that they give instructions for making up a DIY solution yourself, since this will work out a LOT cheaper than buying their refills. Not a lot of companies would be so open about that, so that's nice and refeshing to see!
You can buy one of the bio CO2 Systems from Dennerle for example (10-15€) and refill it yourself (there is different combinations but mostly it's sugar + yeast. The Dennerle one I had, comes with a bubble counter, and is connected to the filter itself, so you have more control of the CO2 going in and you could "turn it off" by putting the filter exit valve above water level, but thats too big of a big hassle to do daily if im honest. so far I'm quite happy, it cost 14€ and like 50 cents per refil. Im only keeping neocaridinas though, they are quite sturdy. Probably wouldnt use the system in a nano with Caridinas.
@@bobdole8830 for me personally sugar and yeast won't work as the room temp, in which the tank is set, is almost never above 18-18.5 degree at winter. The reaction is miserable in winter. :) So for me it's either pressurized gas or soda+citric acid. I'll def look into this little system.
Props to them for disclosing the recipe. It wouldn't have been that difficult to figure out for someone that understands the science behind it, but still cool they make it easy for anyone.
Been using it for about a year. It's quite good for tanks up to 100l. Soda and citric acid all the way. You just have to mark the setting on the valve with some felt tip.
It means that with marks on valve and the case serve you as reference points. With those you can quickly set the valve in proper position each time, e.g. after closing it overnight or for the refill.
@@ipatekarbateman6346 Depends on the amount of drops you set. In my 112l it lasts about 3 weeks with soda and citric acid and the setting of 1 drop per 4 mins as I remember correctly.
I've been using this system for more than year and it serves me well. Setting proper rate of drops is time consuming at first, so it's good to mark the sweet spot with some white marker on valve and case. Make sure you tight the diffusor really hard and it would produce only mist of bubbles. I don't count drops when settings it up. Instead i observe the amount of bubbles leaving diffuser. I'm currently testing different recipe for solutions (260g citric acid +150g water, 200d soda + 150g water), where top and bottom ingredients should fully react. With original recipe there's some amount of soda left. It lasts me for 5-6 weeks in 25L, but I keep quite high level of CO2. I think adding solenoid valve won't stop reaction. The pressure would raise and pressure safety valve would open eventually.
I'm currently on this step.. The manual didn't add anything to the baking soda per say.. all liquid in the top container. I need to refill now and not sure about the ratios. I read on one site it was 200g +600ml water + 200 + 100ml (didn't work so well) What is your standard refill for this setup? Need to try something new
@@AshleysAquaticum-rm4rg I was playing with proportions. I settled with: acid 250g + water 180ml, soda 250g + 130ml water. The results may vary, as each citric acid and baking soda is a bit different. What matters is complete dissolution of soda.You can increase acid concentration and add more soda to keep reactor going a bit longer.
I think it's an interesting little CO2 generator. Definitely affordable. Might be a good idea as an entry level CO2 kit for someone who is unsure of whether they want to invest in a kit that is more expensive at start up.
I'm currently using a DIY CO2 system with baking soda and citric acid and I am quite happy with it, I also attached a solenoid valve to it and it stops the reaction once closed at night. I think this reactor is very similar and that liquid solution can be dissolved citric acid in the water
@@youngday77 Almost every DIY kit available that is made of all metal either comes with solenoid or the option to attach one, little pricier but still way less than a full system. Oh and there are also in-line solenoids that you can put in the middle of your tubing. Sorry I know this is 2 months old but figured I'd answer just in case you were still wondering or if anyone else comes across the comment wondering the same thing.
I find the Ziss system very economical to run. I buy my citric acid (granular form) in bulk from a health food store (very cheap), and bicarb soda in bulk from a swimming pool shop (it's used to adjust pH in pools). I estimate my running cost at no more than Australian $5-6/week. Regarding reducing CO2 at night, I simply slide the diffuser closer to the surface each evening, before lights out, and slide it back down in the morning.
Good idea with adjusting the depth of the diffuser, thank you! How does the reaction in your system start, if the both ingredients are in powder/granular form?
Set-up is much easier than the Colombo - the latter I found didn't last long either. Lack of night-time cut-off isn't such a big issue, honestly, I have found 24 hour CO2 at about 1/3rd of the normal bubbles per minute works, and 24 injection helps algae control. Not enough CO2 for my 250 litre tank though. Thanks Mark, appreciated.
Thank you for this review. I'm new to Co2 and have nano tanks. I was looking to try it without spending too much money. This system fits my need and makes me feel a bit more comfortable than the full DIY setup with bottles. I'm waiting for my order to arrive.
Thank you! A very detailed review! For me personally sugar and yeast won't work as the room temp, in which the tank is set, is almost never above 18-18.5 degree at winter. The reaction is miserable in winter. :) So for me it's either pressurized gas or soda+citric acid. I'll def look into this little system. I wish it was a slightly better looking one, but it still looks ok.
Very interesting system, might give it a try some day. To refill my CO2 tank, I usualy go to a welding company/store. They refill all kind of cannisters (even fire extinguishers, which I use for my tank) for waaayyy cheaper than a fish store. You mentioned 20 euro's for 2kgs, I pay 20 for 5kgs. Might save you some cash on the long run ;)
Well this is pretty neat. I made a soda bottle setup, intending it to be temporary (just to give my plants an extra boost while they grow in after being relocated). Something like this might be worth it if I decide to continue with it. I do have to say, I feel like their (Ziss) normal no clog air stone would work fine (that's what I'm using). The bubbles are about the same size as the diffuser is producing.
MJ, just a thought - its also worth trying to use as Bio CO2 generating system with Yeast - Add the pasteurized sugar water into the top chamber by adding fresh sugar solution drop by drop into the bio reaction bottom chamber and making it a continuous fermentation system - to last a bit longer than 2 weeks compared to DIY CO2 systems.
Thank you so much for posting this. I’ve been trying to find co2 in my area and none of the LFSs sell it. I can get the tiny Fluval canisters, but they last about 2 days - hardly economical. I just ordered one of these - can’t wait to try it!!
I think if you add a selenoid to this system, the co2 production will not stop. Selenoid will close the co2 outlet but as the pressure inside is increasing, safety pressure release valve will be opened and co2 production kept goes on but in a slower process.
Thanks for testing MJ and for your honest review. System looks very interesting. I have 4 planted tanks( 3 20 gal, 1 10gal). No C02 system. To expensive for me at the moment. This may be product I need to try. I am concerned about not being able to turn it off at night. Setting it as low as possible,would that much C02 harm my fish? Can I actually overdose my fish with to much C02? Everything I research shows systems turning off at night.
It depends how much living things & surface agitation (from air bubbler or filter) you have. Agitation makes the CO2 escape and replaces it with equal amount of oxygen. Filterless non agitated tank with a lot of life inside need less or no added CO2. You can add cheap solenoid valve that shut it off at night automatically, or have airstone bubbler come on with a timer in the morning for few hours before the lights in a filterless I otherwise non agitated tank to increase oxygen for the fish and plants when it’s most needed, without needing to interrupt the slow rate CO2 system (like in the video)
You have just given me a lot of info I did not know. Thank you so much for information! You have been very helpful. I have 2 tanks heavily planted. More established. 1 of the 20gal is new. So lots of plants but they are all small to medium size due to being a new set up. I do use air stones that I could put on the timer with my lights. My filters also provide agitation.
Love your videos. i have just got in this hobby a few months ago you have been a huge inspiration. Can you do a follow up / final review on this system as im considering trying it Keep up the good work!
If you will use a solenoid on this system, the airline tubing will blow up with a really loud bang. Now, of course, you can switch it to CO2 tubing, which then begs the question if the plastic canister can hold the pressure. I wouldn't risk it in your case. I think this is meant to be the commercial variant of the homemade CO2 bottles we used to do, with sugar and yeast.
That's a very intelligent and practical approach to the baking soda and citric acid reaction. Still no links for markets outside EU because there is still no Chinese copycat.
Very interesting, most in this price range are 'bio' co2 that I think is yeast and sugar (?) but I find those very irregular so at the start they pump out loads of co2 and die down until very little. This one appears from your video to be more constant steady output through its whole cycle which is a huge advantage
I feel the biggest downside to this is the lack of solenoid and due to the method by which it creates CO2 it would not be possible to fit one. Maybe the best compromise would be to fit a valve into the tubing, open the valve in the evening so that overnight it would just vent the CO2 to the atmosphere then in the morning just close the valve to direct it back into the tank. It's not ideal but better than continually pumping CO2 into the water when the plants are unable to make use of it.
You run it at lower rate so you give a day’s dose over 24 hours instead of a day’s dose over 8 or 12 hours. The CO2 accumulates in the tank overnight and then the plants start working thru it in the morning.
Had nothing but issues with my one- it wouldn't hold the drip rate I set at all ie. set it to one drip per 9mins then check it 3 hours later to find the drip rate is either much faster or slower. Then after the 3rd time coming home to find the drip rate had increased dramatically in 10hrs resulting in all the fish at the surface gasping, I gave up & went back to the DIY soda bottle method as it was way quicker to dial in the correct rate & hold it constant.
probably due to the varying pressure inside the unit, a better regulator valve could solve this. If the valve ur closing at night is the same as the one used for adjustment . a second valve could be be used for closing at night.
@@kurtauerbach5883 It's the valve on the unit, I didn't use a second one. I went back to using the 2 bottle method. Now don't use any as only have blackwater setups.
I don't have one of these, but I am curious what would happen if it got bumped. Because it is passively reacting it seems possible that you could form layers with more acid on top and more baking soda at the bottom. The reaction happening at the boundary layer. If you bump it, it could mix these layers causing a relatively large amount of reaction and therefore a large amount of CO2 would enter the tank. The addition of water to the baking soda should help this. Also, it appears there is a surplus of baking soda to try to ensure that it fully reacts. But as it comes up on the end I would like to see how it handles a jostling or moving it to a new position. I would also be tempted to try to add a needle valve and bubble counter to it just to play around.
Great video, We just received some of these kits in our latest order. They do look pretty good, I must admit. Do let us know how it performs over the next few weeks.
Thank you so much for sharing this product with us! Definitely worth a try for someone like me who's never used CO2 before. I love plants and love aquascaping. The cost of CO2 initial set up always feels too high for something I'm not even sure I would want to consistently deep dive into. My plants do fine without it, but it comes with limitations on what I can play with. Definitely going to purchase this, and give it a try! I have a 40c cube with a Twin Star Clll. Should be a good starting place...hopefully. ☺️☺️☺️
This looks like just what I would want for something easy but manual at the same time. Won’t see it here in the US. If I would try to buy it internationally, the costs to ship to the US, and any possible duties would be more than the device cost 🤷🏼♂️ As always, Thanks MJ for the video. I would never have known about this device if it wasn’t for you. 👍🏼
7 months later now, have you noticed anything new about it? Just ordered one the other day and would love to hear any tips you may have. also many kudos on production quality, your videos are a pleasure to watch
I know this comes 7 months later but maybe it helps. The amount of CO2 generated by this is 160g according to the manufacturer. Also you can use any diffuser, i use an ISTA one that comes with integrated valve and bubble counter.
@MJ Aquascaping Very nice co2 implementation but i think i prefer the 2 bottle version with solenoid valve and uses citric acid and baking soda it comes about the same price as that one :) love your videos and keep them coming :)
very informative video : ) one question I have as a newbie to the hobby: if I want to use a (DIY) CO2 system for a few weeks while a tank is cycling to help the plants grow faster, but then plan to remove the system before adding livestock, would there be any repercussions to this?
Great video..... Have not been watching fish tank videos in a long time. Nice to see your Channel growing and doing well. Soon you'll have a Million Subs. Congrats!
All container can use,is like a sport drink bottle,but the best for citric acid and bakinh soda is what made from alumunium,the preasure is so high and instant.
Enjoying your videos! New to the aquatics world after creating an ugly aquarium full of plastic junk-eek. Your channel has motivated me to make an aesthetically pleasing setup for my sweet little critters- now to find where I can get beautiful plants in London :)
Używam tego od ponad roku,ale miałem kwasek i sodę do 45 litrów dawało radę i faktycznie trzeba uważać bo już 2 razy ryby załatwiłem..😮A aktualnie robię z cukru i drożdży i też daje radę,,😁
The very first CO2 supplementation I ever tried was a product very similar to this. That was about 13 years ago. The main difference between the one I had and this one is that mine had a bubble ladder instead of an actual diffuser. Put me off CO2 for a while lol. But only for a while.
I had that bubble ladder one too. I can't remember the company though. Do you remember who made it? It was very easy to fill and use with yeast and sugar. But it had no control for drops/min.
It is just water and citric acid that you mix and pour in the cap of the container. And sodium bicarbonate in the bottom of the container. It is also in the manual with the machine how to do it. It is so simple to do.
If this was set up in a planted only tank, would you still need to turn it off? I know plants use co2 during day light hours and oxygen at night but would they still be ok with it running 24/7?
Aah, yes. Good ol' cisod (citric acid + sodium bicarbonate). In my country, they use a modified (small) fire extinguisher tank to store the concoction. The internal pressure will halt the chemical process, meaning all you need to note are (i) sturdy container, (ii) pressure gauge, and (iii) high-pressure valve to regulate the pressure. Here a DIY one will cost you about… $30, with steel tank, pressure gauge, pressure valve, citric acid, sodium bicarbonate, bubble counter, etc.
Could I use this for my potted plants? As in can I use this to add CO2 to the water to feed directly to plants? Sure I know leaves handle the CO2 absorption but what about roots?
Ten eerste bedankt voor de video👍 Ik denk dat een solenoid tussen de uitlaatslang niet gaat werken. Je kan zien dat de druk in de onderste kamer gelijk gesteld word met de bovenste kamer. Anders gaat de uitlaat slang niet op de natte bovenste kamer. Ik denk dat vanaf uitlaat zijde van de onderste kamer er een terugslag klep zit voor de vloeistof in de bovenste kamer. Met de uitlaat wellicht heel hoog in de kamer, wat er voor zorgt dat je vloeistof niet regelrecht naar de onderste kamer loopt. Zo blijft de druk gelijk in beide kamers. Als je dit niet gelijk zou stellen dan stopt hij met druppelen omdat de druk in de onderste kamer te hoog word in vergelijking met de bovenste kamer. Als je een solenoid tussen de uitgaande slang zet creeer je meer druk in beide ruimtes en blijft de boel gewoon door druppelen in mijn optiek. En dan ontploft de generator. Ik ben van plan zelf dit systeem na te bouwen na het zien van jou video. Ik ga een solenoid klep plaatsen onder de bovenste kamer, met daaronder een naaldklep en zo naar beneden naar de onderste ruimte. Zo kan ik het druppelen stoppen en timen met een timer en rekening houden met eventueel nadruppen. Ik ga van de onderste kamer dus ook eerst terug retour naar de bovenste kamer en laat de slang binnen komen boven vloeistof niveau. Vervolgens gaat er weer een slang naar buiten richting de bak, zo blijf de druk aan beide zijden gelijk. Echter is druk opbouwen als je het mij vraagt niet eens nodig maar meer een bijkomend probleem. Anders moet je er tuinslangen aan gaan hangen om het systeem vrij te laten ademen😂
First, you make awesome videos. A plus for this system is you can hide the canister behind your bananas on your kitchen/tank table, right? And I just hook a tube up to my car exhaust pipe and add CO2 to my tank that way, sounds safe, right? hahaha. Thanks for the informative video!
If you use a solenoid valve I think you should either find a three-way valve or find two that are opposite (default-closed vs default-open) or somehow put two valves on an inverted signal. That way the CO2 just gets diverted into the room air when it's not needed.
Thank you for the informative video. While this is an inexpensive system, there is price and cost. Pretty cheap to start out but a high cost to tune it and use it properly. I admire your fortitude of waiting with a stopwatch to sort of optimize output. It takes a smart guy like you to understand how it works and use it properly. Your experience points didn't come cheap. For the rest of us mere mortals your modular setup with two tanks is the smart way to go. It serves those with multiple tank syndrome as well as the beginner with a small tank. The big savings is time. The modular system can be up and running in a reliable fashion that has more safeguards against doing harm to your fish. I just began keeping fish at the beginning of Covid. I watched this video and some of your others on CO2. Thanks again, you have put in a lot of time and effort to teach us complex issues in a simple and easy to understand manner.
Aqaurium Direct has them. I honestly don't recommend it though... The DIY recipes and instructions are in broken English and don't have the correct ratios. Mine worked for about 30 minutes after a couple hours of adjusting the drip rate and then it started to siphon the citric acid solution into my aquarium!! I've been trying to get it to work again but it's been nothing but issues. So frustrating.
I think I can add a small motor and controller to the adjustment valve ti turn it off at night and turn it on always the same amount, so it remains consistent. Looks good and indeed cheaper except refills, but still expensive for what it is, smart design though.
Love the video! They are absolutely helpful and easy to follow for someone trying to get into aquascaping :) , however I must ask...... has anyone told you that you look so much like Jaqen H'ghar from Game Of Thrones?
iI it gonna help to my 250ltr aquarium to test how it goes with co2 or better to keep it without? I know it is for smaller tanks but it shoud be better than nothing and also i'm not sure if i want to buy proper co2 system .
Its crazy how expensive these systems are in europe usa, im in hong kong and we import from china and 2 litre kit with the plug in valve and all the equipment and 3 refill sets is around £40 i got a 1 litre kit for 28£
@MJAquascaping Thank you very much for this video. I’m interested and hesitant at the same time: what happen if you have power outage while not at home; does the upper liquid continue to drop below and pressure still rising? When it’s time to refill, is there any danger to separate the two parts (pressure) ? Thanks again.
You misunderstood the recipe, 160g of citric acid in bottle and add water to fill 350ml, that doesn't mean to add 350ml of water! First you have to mesure the bottel, add 350ml water and mark the level, next you add 160g CAcid and water to hit that mark.
I need a little help because I just gotten the 2L zrdr aqua r200 co2 canister from Amazon , because im going to put plants in my 40 gallon tank .........the question that I have is , can I use yeast/sugar/water to put in it ? , because i checked some of my local supermarkets and they don't have citric acid in the baking aisles I've been searching on YT to see if anyone put yeast/sugar/water in it and I can't find any vids , all I seen was people putting yeast/sugar/water in plastic bottles
Alas, I spent hours regulating the drops/flow and the bubbles in the diffuser. Left the tank for half an hour and came back to a tankful of dead fish😢. Would not recommend. Pretty much impossible to make it work consistently.
Today we are unboxing and setting up a very interesting cheap CO2 system. I have never seen anything like this before!
This is where I bought it bit.ly/3JKBUGI
Unfortunately I couldn't find a link for all my US followers. I'm surprised that this is not available on Amazon?
Equipment I like to use (affiliate links)
Tank
US: bit.ly/3EbkdxH
EU: bit.ly/3S3y9ht
Light
US: bit.ly/3S2WxjC
EU: bit.ly/3z6R16F
Filter
US: bit.ly/3yxFttR
EU: bit.ly/3eoYxUn
Clear Filter Pipes
US: bit.ly/3RsFJkT
EU: bit.ly/3AL5oyv
Substrate
US: bit.ly/3bux8yR
EU: bit.ly/3qhHDt4
Wood (similar)
US: bit.ly/3VmDUJ0
EU: bit.ly/3MwgKfm
Rocks (similar)
US: bit.ly/3yAO7Yk
EU: bit.ly/3Tn0tLX
Dwarf Hairgrass (Eleocharis parvula)
US: bit.ly/3VsJIR5
Umbrella Hair Grass (Eleocharis Vivipara)
US: bit.ly/3MpO9br
Riccardia moss
US: bit.ly/3SR3Zy9
Juncus repens
US: bit.ly/3yyJjmo
Crypt parva
US: bit.ly/3Cs0APn
Crypt lutea
US: bit.ly/3yBGDo7
Crypt walkeri
US: bit.ly/3rSxBzu
🚨Watch this next!🚨
Inspiration playlist! ua-cam.com/play/PLrlvf56gZy-ipL3105SdfKsUBrMUSttoh.html
CO2 buying guide! ua-cam.com/video/dIVrr1yS3sU/v-deo.html
How to SETUP your CO2! ua-cam.com/video/qSHZ4F2PI2o/v-deo.html
Simple fertilizer dosing! ua-cam.com/video/I_KBOUM1RXM/v-deo.html
👉🏻Cool Aquascaping T-shirts: mosscotton.com/ Code: mjaqua10
👉🏻Be sure to SUBSCRIBE to my UA-cam channel: UA-cam.com/mjaquascaping
👉🏻 Use Code ''MJAMSTERDAM'' for 10% off Fzone products
#plantedtank #aquascape #mjaquascaping
Btw, where did you get that vase?
Ebay has them I believe
How can I get if I live in USA
I replaced the top part with an autodoser that screws in in place of the control valve, now I can turn it on and of and control the amount remotely/set proper timers
@@kevin1smid is it possible for you to show or link that autodoser attachment?
What a fascinating little contraption. Looks way more straightforward than the DIY kits with two soda bottles and is also quite a bit cheaper than the Steel Generator systems are these days. Good find! I was also pleased that they give instructions for making up a DIY solution yourself, since this will work out a LOT cheaper than buying their refills. Not a lot of companies would be so open about that, so that's nice and refeshing to see!
You can buy one of the bio CO2 Systems from Dennerle for example (10-15€) and refill it yourself (there is different combinations but mostly it's sugar + yeast. The Dennerle one I had, comes with a bubble counter, and is connected to the filter itself, so you have more control of the CO2 going in and you could "turn it off" by putting the filter exit valve above water level, but thats too big of a big hassle to do daily if im honest. so far I'm quite happy, it cost 14€ and like 50 cents per refil. Im only keeping neocaridinas though, they are quite sturdy. Probably wouldnt use the system in a nano with Caridinas.
@@bobdole8830 can you please tell me the name of the product?
@@mixalislol5994 Dennerle 5692 Nano Bio CO2 Komplett-Set - CO2- Düngung für Nano Aquarien
@@bobdole8830 for me personally sugar and yeast won't work as the room temp, in which the tank is set, is almost never above 18-18.5 degree at winter. The reaction is miserable in winter. :) So for me it's either pressurized gas or soda+citric acid. I'll def look into this little system.
Props to them for disclosing the recipe. It wouldn't have been that difficult to figure out for someone that understands the science behind it, but still cool they make it easy for anyone.
Been using it for about a year. It's quite good for tanks up to 100l. Soda and citric acid all the way. You just have to mark the setting on the valve with some felt tip.
What does that mean?
It means that with marks on valve and the case serve you as reference points. With those you can quickly set the valve in proper position each time, e.g. after closing it overnight or for the refill.
@@blackredroll Exactly Krzysztofie😉
how long does it last for a refill
@@ipatekarbateman6346 Depends on the amount of drops you set. In my 112l it lasts about 3 weeks with soda and citric acid and the setting of 1 drop per 4 mins as I remember correctly.
I've been using this system for more than year and it serves me well. Setting proper rate of drops is time consuming at first, so it's good to mark the sweet spot with some white marker on valve and case. Make sure you tight the diffusor really hard and it would produce only mist of bubbles.
I don't count drops when settings it up. Instead i observe the amount of bubbles leaving diffuser.
I'm currently testing different recipe for solutions (260g citric acid +150g water, 200d soda + 150g water), where top and bottom ingredients should fully react. With original recipe there's some amount of soda left. It lasts me for 5-6 weeks in 25L, but I keep quite high level of CO2.
I think adding solenoid valve won't stop reaction. The pressure would raise and pressure safety valve would open eventually.
I'm currently on this step.. The manual didn't add anything to the baking soda per say.. all liquid in the top container. I need to refill now and not sure about the ratios. I read on one site it was 200g +600ml water + 200 + 100ml (didn't work so well) What is your standard refill for this setup? Need to try something new
@@AshleysAquaticum-rm4rg I was playing with proportions. I settled with: acid 250g + water 180ml, soda 250g + 130ml water. The results may vary, as each citric acid and baking soda is a bit different. What matters is complete dissolution of soda.You can increase acid concentration and add more soda to keep reactor going a bit longer.
I think it's an interesting little CO2 generator. Definitely affordable. Might be a good idea as an entry level CO2 kit for someone who is unsure of whether they want to invest in a kit that is more expensive at start up.
I'm currently using a DIY CO2 system with baking soda and citric acid and I am quite happy with it, I also attached a solenoid valve to it and it stops the reaction once closed at night. I think this reactor is very similar and that liquid solution can be dissolved citric acid in the water
May I know how did you attach a solenoid valve to a DIY CO2 system? thanks
@@youngday77 Almost every DIY kit available that is made of all metal either comes with solenoid or the option to attach one, little pricier but still way less than a full system. Oh and there are also in-line solenoids that you can put in the middle of your tubing. Sorry I know this is 2 months old but figured I'd answer just in case you were still wondering or if anyone else comes across the comment wondering the same thing.
I find the Ziss system very economical to run. I buy my citric acid (granular form) in bulk from a health food store (very cheap), and bicarb soda in bulk from a swimming pool shop (it's used to adjust pH in pools). I estimate my running cost at no more than Australian $5-6/week. Regarding reducing CO2 at night, I simply slide the diffuser closer to the surface each evening, before lights out, and slide it back down in the morning.
I am trying to find this system in Australia. Where did you get it?
How's the pressure build-up overnight?
@@a9fc He's not blocking the outflow, so there is no pressure build-up.
Good idea with adjusting the depth of the diffuser, thank you! How does the reaction in your system start, if the both ingredients are in powder/granular form?
You mix the granulated citric acid with water, to make a solution (instructions on ratios are included in the kit)
Set-up is much easier than the Colombo - the latter I found didn't last long either. Lack of night-time cut-off isn't such a big issue, honestly, I have found 24 hour CO2 at about 1/3rd of the normal bubbles per minute works, and 24 injection helps algae control. Not enough CO2 for my 250 litre tank though.
Thanks Mark, appreciated.
Thank you for this review. I'm new to Co2 and have nano tanks. I was looking to try it without spending too much money. This system fits my need and makes me feel a bit more comfortable than the full DIY setup with bottles. I'm waiting for my order to arrive.
If I have a nano tank of 3 gal do you have any recommendations of how many drops per second?
Thank you! A very detailed review! For me personally sugar and yeast won't work as the room temp, in which the tank is set, is almost never above 18-18.5 degree at winter. The reaction is miserable in winter. :) So for me it's either pressurized gas or soda+citric acid. I'll def look into this little system. I wish it was a slightly better looking one, but it still looks ok.
Very interesting system, might give it a try some day. To refill my CO2 tank, I usualy go to a welding company/store. They refill all kind of cannisters (even fire extinguishers, which I use for my tank) for waaayyy cheaper than a fish store. You mentioned 20 euro's for 2kgs, I pay 20 for 5kgs. Might save you some cash on the long run ;)
Great tip! Thanks 😊
Well this is pretty neat. I made a soda bottle setup, intending it to be temporary (just to give my plants an extra boost while they grow in after being relocated). Something like this might be worth it if I decide to continue with it.
I do have to say, I feel like their (Ziss) normal no clog air stone would work fine (that's what I'm using). The bubbles are about the same size as the diffuser is producing.
MJ, just a thought - its also worth trying to use as Bio CO2 generating system with Yeast - Add the pasteurized sugar water into the top chamber by adding fresh sugar solution drop by drop into the bio reaction bottom chamber and making it a continuous fermentation system - to last a bit longer than 2 weeks compared to DIY CO2 systems.
Thank you so much for posting this. I’ve been trying to find co2 in my area and none of the LFSs sell it. I can get the tiny Fluval canisters, but they last about 2 days - hardly economical. I just ordered one of these - can’t wait to try it!!
Thank you for sharing! Im using the 2 bottle soda co2 at the moment and this product is more compacted and easier to operate! I will defo try this out
I think if you add a selenoid to this system, the co2 production will not stop. Selenoid will close the co2 outlet but as the pressure inside is increasing, safety pressure release valve will be opened and co2 production kept goes on but in a slower process.
The hobby is developing. I like how many options we have now. Gone are the days when CO2 systs were too expensive
Thanks for testing MJ and for your honest review. System looks very interesting. I have 4 planted tanks( 3 20 gal, 1 10gal). No C02 system. To expensive for me at the moment. This may be product I need to try. I am concerned about not being able to turn it off at night. Setting it as low as possible,would that much C02 harm my fish? Can I actually overdose my fish with to much C02? Everything I research shows systems turning off at night.
I would also like to know lol
It depends how much living things & surface agitation (from air bubbler or filter) you have. Agitation makes the CO2 escape and replaces it with equal amount of oxygen. Filterless non agitated tank with a lot of life inside need less or no added CO2.
You can add cheap solenoid valve that shut it off at night automatically, or have airstone bubbler come on with a timer in the morning for few hours before the lights in a filterless I otherwise non agitated tank to increase oxygen for the fish and plants when it’s most needed, without needing to interrupt the slow rate CO2 system (like in the video)
You have just given me a lot of info I did not know. Thank you so much for information! You have been very helpful. I have 2 tanks heavily planted. More established. 1 of the 20gal is new. So lots of plants but they are all small to medium size due to being a new set up. I do use air stones that I could put on the timer with my lights. My filters also provide agitation.
@@tracys.6033 running it at night won't do any harm but it's a waste of money, that's my take Tracy
Thank you for sharing your thoughts. Everyone's input helps me learn more. I had been wondering if it really would be unnecessary at night.
Love your videos. i have just got in this hobby a few months ago you have been a huge inspiration. Can you do a follow up / final review on this system as im considering trying it
Keep up the good work!
That would be nice as I am waiting for it, too.
If you will use a solenoid on this system, the airline tubing will blow up with a really loud bang. Now, of course, you can switch it to CO2 tubing, which then begs the question if the plastic canister can hold the pressure. I wouldn't risk it in your case. I think this is meant to be the commercial variant of the homemade CO2 bottles we used to do, with sugar and yeast.
This has a pressure relief valve.
Thanks for showing us this, I’m going to try it for my 20 gallon tank
cool design. hopefully you use it long enough for a long term review of how long the first batch lasts.
That's a very intelligent and practical approach to the baking soda and citric acid reaction. Still no links for markets outside EU because there is still no Chinese copycat.
I just saw the price of this and it seems very affordable. Thanks for the review!
Very interesting, most in this price range are 'bio' co2 that I think is yeast and sugar (?) but I find those very irregular so at the start they pump out loads of co2 and die down until very little. This one appears from your video to be more constant steady output through its whole cycle which is a huge advantage
I feel the biggest downside to this is the lack of solenoid and due to the method by which it creates CO2 it would not be possible to fit one. Maybe the best compromise would be to fit a valve into the tubing, open the valve in the evening so that overnight it would just vent the CO2 to the atmosphere then in the morning just close the valve to direct it back into the tank. It's not ideal but better than continually pumping CO2 into the water when the plants are unable to make use of it.
You run it at lower rate so you give a day’s dose over 24 hours instead of a day’s dose over 8 or 12 hours. The CO2 accumulates in the tank overnight and then the plants start working thru it in the morning.
Had nothing but issues with my one- it wouldn't hold the drip rate I set at all ie. set it to one drip per 9mins then check it 3 hours later to find the drip rate is either much faster or slower. Then after the 3rd time coming home to find the drip rate had increased dramatically in 10hrs resulting in all the fish at the surface gasping, I gave up & went back to the DIY soda bottle method as it was way quicker to dial in the correct rate & hold it constant.
probably due to the varying pressure inside the unit, a better regulator valve could solve this. If the valve ur closing at night is the same as the one used for adjustment . a second valve could be be used for closing at night.
@@kurtauerbach5883 It's the valve on the unit, I didn't use a second one. I went back to using the 2 bottle method. Now don't use any as only have blackwater setups.
I don't have one of these, but I am curious what would happen if it got bumped. Because it is passively reacting it seems possible that you could form layers with more acid on top and more baking soda at the bottom. The reaction happening at the boundary layer. If you bump it, it could mix these layers causing a relatively large amount of reaction and therefore a large amount of CO2 would enter the tank. The addition of water to the baking soda should help this. Also, it appears there is a surplus of baking soda to try to ensure that it fully reacts. But as it comes up on the end I would like to see how it handles a jostling or moving it to a new position. I would also be tempted to try to add a needle valve and bubble counter to it just to play around.
this seems like a genius way to do CO2... looks pretty easy to set up and it's just making a 3rd grade science project natural reaction. well done!
Thanks for testing that! Was curious myself. I run reactors but in the tank style (metal cylinder). Spraying the pants on still I see!
Great video, We just received some of these kits in our latest order. They do look pretty good, I must admit. Do let us know how it performs over the next few weeks.
Interesting, very good quality and I always trust the Korean products. Probably I’ll replace my Neo diy co2 kit with this one
Thank you so much for sharing this product with us! Definitely worth a try for someone like me who's never used CO2 before. I love plants and love aquascaping. The cost of CO2 initial set up always feels too high for something I'm not even sure I would want to consistently deep dive into.
My plants do fine without it, but it comes with limitations on what I can play with. Definitely going to purchase this, and give it a try!
I have a 40c cube with a Twin Star Clll. Should be a good starting place...hopefully. ☺️☺️☺️
Im still on the DIY CO2 with yeast and sugar and a CO2 checker. Still works great. MJ has a couple of vids on it
Products like these are great as more accessable to people on a budget. Simple ingredients, 3d printed containers with some air tubes. Easy as
Great review. Been on the lookout for a simple solution like this. Thanks
Great video, that looks perfect for what I need and such an accessible price.
Thanks
👍
This looks like just what I would want for something easy but manual at the same time. Won’t see it here in the US. If I would try to buy it internationally, the costs to ship to the US, and any possible duties would be more than the device cost 🤷🏼♂️ As always, Thanks MJ for the video. I would never have known about this device if it wasn’t for you. 👍🏼
I live in USA and bought from Canadian website, total cost with shipping was $57 usd.
Hi MJ, can you recommend a CO2 reactor for smaller, freshwater aquariums? I’m aiming to build a rig suitable for 20 gallons. Thanks!
That's very interesting. I have never used CO2, so trying it with something like that seems easier for beginners.
I've had issues with mine, doesn't hold a constant rate, so it either slows right down after a while or speeds up, so worth bearing in mind
Excellent video. So useful and informative. Thanks!
7 months later now, have you noticed anything new about it? Just ordered one the other day and would love to hear any tips you may have.
also many kudos on production quality, your videos are a pleasure to watch
i ordered one today based on your video, hopefully will work better then soda stream method, thank you.
Hi MJ can you please tell me an emergency valve position, is it full screwed and tightly closed or unscrewed not tight, thank you in advance.
I know this comes 7 months later but maybe it helps. The amount of CO2 generated by this is 160g according to the manufacturer. Also you can use any diffuser, i use an ISTA one that comes with integrated valve and bubble counter.
@MJ Aquascaping Very nice co2 implementation but i think i prefer the 2 bottle version with solenoid valve and uses citric acid and baking soda it comes about the same price as that one :) love your videos and keep them coming :)
very informative video : ) one question I have as a newbie to the hobby: if I want to use a (DIY) CO2 system for a few weeks while a tank is cycling to help the plants grow faster, but then plan to remove the system before adding livestock, would there be any repercussions to this?
Great video..... Have not been watching fish tank videos in a long time. Nice to see your Channel growing and doing well. Soon you'll have a Million Subs. Congrats!
All container can use,is like a sport drink bottle,but the best for citric acid and bakinh soda is what made from alumunium,the preasure is so high and instant.
Nice for introducing it!!! Gonna try!
Enjoying your videos! New to the aquatics world after creating an ugly aquarium full of plastic junk-eek. Your channel has motivated me to make an aesthetically pleasing setup for my sweet little critters- now to find where I can get beautiful plants in London :)
Ebay for plants. You can get most species there in the UK. Then cultivate them yourself if you are on a budget.
@@nospoon4799 thank you for this tip!! Appreciate your time in replying
@@chelseahuff8680 No probs have fun. Plenty of videos on emersed cultivation these days.
I like your scientific wording for " This thing I guess is the CO2 control valve adjuster thingy " haha
This is good. Just use sugar and years and water. And use bigger cup that fits on that cap.
6:15 " actually scratch that, suction cups and round face don't go well together guys" 🤣🤣🤣
Używam tego od ponad roku,ale miałem kwasek i sodę do 45 litrów dawało radę i faktycznie trzeba uważać bo już 2 razy ryby załatwiłem..😮A aktualnie robię z cukru i drożdży i też daje radę,,😁
the bubble counter is built in the diffuser, you have to fill it up wit water and count the bubbles there.
in co2 is best not have the outlet break the surface. so basically just make a ripple effect ? thank you
can you use this to refill co2 cartiages and use it for like soda stream?
The very first CO2 supplementation I ever tried was a product very similar to this. That was about 13 years ago. The main difference between the one I had and this one is that mine had a bubble ladder instead of an actual diffuser. Put me off CO2 for a while lol. But only for a while.
I had that bubble ladder one too. I can't remember the company though. Do you remember who made it? It was very easy to fill and use with yeast and sugar. But it had no control for drops/min.
@@sicilianotoronto I could be wrong but I think it was made by Nutrafin.
Would gratefully appreciate a DIY video showing how to make refill kit from scratch.
It is just water and citric acid that you mix and pour in the cap of the container. And sodium bicarbonate in the bottom of the container. It is also in the manual with the machine how to do it. It is so simple to do.
Good review!
Is it OK to add co2 temporarily to get plants to a certain size in a show tank then remove it permanently?
If this was set up in a planted only tank, would you still need to turn it off? I know plants use co2 during day light hours and oxygen at night but would they still be ok with it running 24/7?
Aah, yes. Good ol' cisod (citric acid + sodium bicarbonate).
In my country, they use a modified (small) fire extinguisher tank to store the concoction.
The internal pressure will halt the chemical process, meaning all you need to note are (i) sturdy container, (ii) pressure gauge, and (iii) high-pressure valve to regulate the pressure.
Here a DIY one will cost you about… $30, with steel tank, pressure gauge, pressure valve, citric acid, sodium bicarbonate, bubble counter, etc.
Could I use this for my potted plants? As in can I use this to add CO2 to the water to feed directly to plants?
Sure I know leaves handle the CO2 absorption but what about roots?
Ten eerste bedankt voor de video👍
Ik denk dat een solenoid tussen de uitlaatslang niet gaat werken.
Je kan zien dat de druk in de onderste kamer gelijk gesteld word met de bovenste kamer. Anders gaat de uitlaat slang niet op de natte bovenste kamer.
Ik denk dat vanaf uitlaat zijde van de onderste kamer er een terugslag klep zit voor de vloeistof in de bovenste kamer. Met de uitlaat wellicht heel hoog in de kamer, wat er voor zorgt dat je vloeistof niet regelrecht naar de onderste kamer loopt. Zo blijft de druk gelijk in beide kamers. Als je dit niet gelijk zou stellen dan stopt hij met druppelen omdat de druk in de onderste kamer te hoog word in vergelijking met de bovenste kamer. Als je een solenoid tussen de uitgaande slang zet creeer je meer druk in beide ruimtes en blijft de boel gewoon door druppelen in mijn optiek. En dan ontploft de generator.
Ik ben van plan zelf dit systeem na te bouwen na het zien van jou video. Ik ga een solenoid klep plaatsen onder de bovenste kamer, met daaronder een naaldklep en zo naar beneden naar de onderste ruimte. Zo kan ik het druppelen stoppen en timen met een timer en rekening houden met eventueel nadruppen. Ik ga van de onderste kamer dus ook eerst terug retour naar de bovenste kamer en laat de slang binnen komen boven vloeistof niveau. Vervolgens gaat er weer een slang naar buiten richting de bak, zo blijf de druk aan beide zijden gelijk. Echter is druk opbouwen als je het mij vraagt niet eens nodig maar meer een bijkomend probleem. Anders moet je er tuinslangen aan gaan hangen om het systeem vrij te laten ademen😂
Watched the whole review, go to comments to find link to purchase, no link or any directions how to purchase. Awesome.
Great video, thanks
First, you make awesome videos.
A plus for this system is you can hide the canister behind your bananas on your kitchen/tank table, right?
And I just hook a tube up to my car exhaust pipe and add CO2 to my tank that way, sounds safe, right? hahaha.
Thanks for the informative video!
0:30 hi where did you buy that terrarium in the back?
If you use a solenoid valve I think you should either find a three-way valve or find two that are opposite (default-closed vs default-open) or somehow put two valves on an inverted signal. That way the CO2 just gets diverted into the room air when it's not needed.
Great title haha, thanks for sharing MJ
I used to use vinegar and baking soda in an old two liter soda bottle hooked up to an airline and diffuser
Thank you for the informative video. While this is an inexpensive system, there is price and cost. Pretty cheap to start out but a high cost to tune it and use it properly. I admire your fortitude of waiting with a stopwatch to sort of optimize output. It takes a smart guy like you to understand how it works and use it properly. Your experience points didn't come cheap. For the rest of us mere mortals your modular setup with two tanks is the smart way to go. It serves those with multiple tank syndrome as well as the beginner with a small tank. The big savings is time. The modular system can be up and running in a reliable fashion that has more safeguards against doing harm to your fish. I just began keeping fish at the beginning of Covid. I watched this video and some of your others on CO2. Thanks again, you have put in a lot of time and effort to teach us complex issues in a simple and easy to understand manner.
I would love to try that but I live in Canada cannot get it anywhere too bad
Actually someone in the comments said they got theirs from a Canadian website so it's definitely around
Aqaurium Direct has them. I honestly don't recommend it though...
The DIY recipes and instructions are in broken English and don't have the correct ratios. Mine worked for about 30 minutes after a couple hours of adjusting the drip rate and then it started to siphon the citric acid solution into my aquarium!!
I've been trying to get it to work again but it's been nothing but issues. So frustrating.
I did the hillbilly mead co2 and it worked well.
Thanks for good explanation,,,see you soon with your new tanck.,,
Nice video but can you try to use another Diffusor for that Co2 system for example one from Twinstar?
"I have found a cheap CO2 generator"
Swedish female voice in the distance: "How dare you"
After a system for under £100. Would you recommend this over a steel canister generator?
Nah I prefer the canister generator
The concept is basically the same used in homemade co2 diffusers. Those made with plastic bottles.
I think I can add a small motor and controller to the adjustment valve ti turn it off at night and turn it on always the same amount, so it remains consistent. Looks good and indeed cheaper except refills, but still expensive for what it is, smart design though.
What if you trim your plants,doesnt the co2 get to high or do you have to adjust the driprate.
you always find amazing things
If u mistakely shake the bottle will it blast?
Love the video! They are absolutely helpful and easy to follow for someone trying to get into aquascaping :) , however I must ask...... has anyone told you that you look so much like Jaqen H'ghar from Game Of Thrones?
Somehow I only get that from ppl on UA-cam 😁 No1 in ''real life'' has told me that! But maybe I need to get out more 😂
I'll have to look into that
iI it gonna help to my 250ltr aquarium to test how it goes with co2 or better to keep it without? I know it is for smaller tanks but it shoud be better than nothing and also i'm not sure if i want to buy proper co2 system .
Its crazy how expensive these systems are in europe usa, im in hong kong and we import from china and 2 litre kit with the plug in valve and all the equipment and 3 refill sets is around £40 i got a 1 litre kit for 28£
whats different between normal oxygen genrators and lily pipes and this co2 def ?
@MJAquascaping Thank you very much for this video. I’m interested and hesitant at the same time: what happen if you have power outage while not at home; does the upper liquid continue to drop below and pressure still rising? When it’s time to refill, is there any danger to separate the two parts (pressure) ? Thanks again.
It has a pressure release valve so I don't think it will over pressurize.
You misunderstood the recipe, 160g of citric acid in bottle and add water to fill 350ml, that doesn't mean to add 350ml of water! First you have to mesure the bottel, add 350ml water and mark the level, next you add 160g CAcid and water to hit that mark.
Does the vinegar put ascetic acid fumes into the water?
for me is beter Sodastream CO2 set + el. valve = cca 80 EURO
If i add a solenoid valve, would that stop the liquid solution from dropping on the bottom chamber?
I need a little help because I just gotten the 2L zrdr aqua r200 co2 canister from Amazon , because im going to put plants in my 40 gallon tank .........the question that I have is , can I use yeast/sugar/water to put in it ? , because i checked some of my local supermarkets and they don't have citric acid in the baking aisles
I've been searching on YT to see if anyone put yeast/sugar/water in it and I can't find any vids , all I seen was people putting yeast/sugar/water in plastic bottles
Cool review
Will the ingredients leak out to the tank? Example critic acid leaking into the tank will be devastating
How many days until you have to replace the 2 solutions?
Alas, I spent hours regulating the drops/flow and the bubbles in the diffuser. Left the tank for half an hour and came back to a tankful of dead fish😢. Would not recommend. Pretty much impossible to make it work consistently.