CO2 Regulator/solenoid

[atomic081]

I'm looking for suggestions for a new CO2 Regulator. I will have this connected to my ph monitor in my calcium reactor. I have a milwaukee Regulator now, but I've been fighting it for over a year. One moment it won't close and the next its not opening. My research shows a dual stage solenoid would be best.

Any reccomendations?

Thanks!

 

[AlexG]

I use the Carbon Doser electronic regulator for my CA reactor. Its easy to setup and consistent. Combined with a peristaltic pump to control water flow it makes CA reactor operation really easy. I don't use the pH probe to turn the Co2 on and off to hold a pH range but rather as just a shutoff in the event the pH gets to low in the reactor. I have my apex set to turn power off to the carbon dose and close a solenoid on the co2 line between the regulator and the reactor. Only thing to be careful about is making sure if the check valve on the Co2 fails that saltwater can't get back to the regulator as it will trash this regulator. I use an extra long Co2 line and keep the regulator higher than the reactor. The one time the checkvalve was leaking it never got close to the regulator.

 

[Water Dog]

What’s your budget and are you handy with DIY projects?

Building an Alanle style dual stage CO2 regulator

So I wanted to start a build thread on how to put together an Alanle style DIY dual stage regulator. Over the last couple of years, after building a couple of my own regulators, I have been helping a bunch of memebers, both here and on RC, with sourcing parts and putting together their...

www.reef2reef.com

 

[atomic081]

I'll spend a little money if I don't need to mess with it ever again! Tired of it not working!

 

[Water Dog]

I'll spend a little money if I don't need to mess with it ever again! Tired of it not working!

See post #40 on page #2 of that DIY build thread. You can find Alanle’s contact info if you’re interested in having him build you a custom regulator.

Building an Alanle style dual stage CO2 regulator

In part 2 of the test, I now let the gas gas move over to the working pressure side of the regulator. I set working pressure side to its max psi. Now I isolate the gas on the working pressure side and remove it from the CO2 tank. It’s reading around 29 psi, I let it sit for over 24 hours...

www.reef2reef.com

 

[rossco]

I have a Reef Fanatic from Premium Aquatics on each of my tanks With CA reactors and they work fine. One of them is 10 years old. Still works as good as the day I bought it. Control it with my Apex.

Reef Fanatic Deluxe CO2 Regulator with Solenoid | Premium Aquatics

Aquarium & Fish Supplies Superstore. Guaranteed Low Prices. Free Shipping for qualified orders. Aquarium supply for your aquarium fish, saltwater aquariums, freshwater aquariums and ponds. The best aquarium lighting, protein skimmers, aquarium chillers, calcium reactors, aquarium pumps for fish...

premiumaquatics.com

 

[LuisPerez711]

I'll spend a little money if I don't need to mess with it ever again! Tired of it not working!

Dual stage regulator, in my opinion, is the way to go. I've known many people who have used the Carbon Doser with much success but for the same price, maybe even less, you can buy or build an industrial strength regulator that'll most likely last a lifetime.

I built my first one when Alan posted the original thread back in 2014-15. Bought everything for about $300. I have since sold the unit but the one I built for my buddy is still working. Only adjustments he's ever made were at the beginning. Once it's dialed in, there is no need to touch it. Solid piece of equipment.

I built 4 last year for around $350 each. It takes some time to find the right pieces at the right price but it can be done for less. If you don't feel like building it, this ebay seller, ishop-365, seems to sell them at a decent price. You do pay a premium because it's pre-built but it's still decent pricing. I've never bought a regulator from them but I have purchased multiple solenoids and needle valves.

Hope this helps.

 

[minus9]

I have an Alan Le regulator and it’s worth every single penny. For the price of a carbon doser or slightly more, you get a precision regulator that’s rock solid. I wouldn’t hesitate to buy another. Do yourself a favor and contact him.

 

[alain Bouchard]

just change the solenoid and needle valve on it, for a better quality ones. That is what I did, and haven't had issue since.

 

[LuisPerez711]

just change the solenoid and needle valve on it, for a better quality ones. That is what I did, and haven't had issue since.

Have you ever had issues when the CO2 tank drops pressure because it's almost empty? I understand the solenoid will switch on and off if you're monitoring your ph but wouldn't it be difficult to adjust the flow when the CO2 tank is almost empty?

 

[zoaprince]

Co2Art is very popular in the freshwater world (where co2 is used much more often)

PRO-SE Series - Aquarium CO2 Dual Stage Regulator with Integrated Solenoid

PRO-SE Series - New Generation of our most popular Aquarium Dual Stage CO2 Regulator. Completely redesigned with new pressure stabilisation construction.

www.co2art.us

I have one but only used it for 6 months. No issues in that time.

 

[blstravler]

I have a custom built one - dual stage- available. I just took down my CalRx if your still looking for one let me know. I'm in NJ but I can ship.

 

[alain Bouchard]

Have you ever had issues when the CO2 tank drops pressure because it's almost empty? I understand the solenoid will switch on and off if you're monitoring your ph but wouldn't it be difficult to adjust the flow when the CO2 tank is almost empty?

first, I had issue with the solenoid- the metal lip from where the co2 comes in, and is blocked by the rubber shoe when the valve is activated, had a small chip broken off, so co2 was continually circulating through the broken chip. The needle valve has an issue where some impurity from the CO2 slowly clog the valve (even though I use food grade), so it need to be adjusted frequently because the bubble count will slow until it stops. The needle valve issue is well known, and is even documented on Milwaukee instrument website. warranty is 6 month.