Description
Co2 Aquarist Ultimate Dual Stage Regulator
The CO2 Aquarist Ultimate Dual Stage Regulator is a premium CO2 regulator designed for planted aquariums, offering precise and reliable CO2 delivery for optimal plant growth and aquarium health. Engineered in New Zealand, it features a dual-stage system to ensure stable CO2 output, preventing end-of-tank dumps (EOTD) that could harm aquatic life. Its modular manifold system allows for CO2 injection into multiple tanks, making it versatile for both nano and large aquariums. The regulator is compatible with AU/NZ CO2 cylinders (W21.8-14 European Standard) and is praised for its robust construction and high-precision control.
Below is an example of the modular manifold with 3 adjustable outlets
Example of a manifold extension, purchase here
Benefits:
- Stable CO2 Delivery: Dual-stage design ensures consistent CO2 output, preventing dangerous EOTD that could suffocate fish or plants.
- Versatile for Multiple Tanks: Expandable manifold system allows precise CO2 injection into up to five aquariums from a single regulator, each with independent control.
- Precise Dosing: High-precision needle valve enables fine-tuned CO2 dosing as low as 1 bubble per 10 seconds, suitable for nano tanks to large setups.
- Enhanced Plant Growth: Maintains optimal CO2 levels, promoting lush plant growth and vibrant aquascapes.
- Safety and Reliability: Built with high-quality materials (stainless steel and aluminum alloy) and includes a 12V DC solenoid for automated, safe operation.
- User-Friendly: Comes with a clear quick-start guide and a comprehensive 45-page e-book for easy setup and CO2 optimization
Features:
- Dual-Stage System: Two-stage pressure reduction minimizes output pressure fluctuations as cylinder pressure drops, preventing EOTD.
- Expandable Manifold: Allows connection of multiple needle valves (up to five) for independent CO2 control in multiple tanks. Each manifold includes a bubble counter for precise dosing.
- High-Precision Needle Valve: Enables accurate CO2 flow adjustment, down to 1 bubble per 10 seconds, ideal for fine-tuning.
- Integrated Solenoid Valve: 12V DC solenoid with low power consumption (3W) allows automation via a timer or pH controller, shutting off CO2 when not needed (e.g., at night when plants aren’t photosynthesizing).
- Dual Gauges: Displays cylinder pressure (0–3000 PSI) and output pressure (0–140 PSI) for easy monitoring.
- Integrated Check Valve: Prevents water backflow into the regulator, enhancing durability.
- High-Quality Materials: Constructed from aluminum alloy and stainless steel for corrosion resistance and durability.
- Compatibility: Designed for AU/NZ CO2 cylinders with W21.8-14 European Standard threads; compatible with standard 4/6 mm CO2-proof tubing
How to Use:
1. Gather Required Components
- CO2 Aquarist Ultimate Dual Stage Regulator (base unit).
- Optional Manifold Extension(s) (one per additional aquarium, up to 4).
- CO2 cylinder compatible with AU/NZ W21.8 European standard threads.
- CO2-resistant tubing (e.g., 4/6 mm hose).
- CO2 diffuser(s) for in-tank delivery system for each aquarium.
- Tools: Allen wrench and S3 wrench (if specified for your model).
- Optional: Timer for solenoid automation, pH/KH test kit for monitoring CO2 levels.
2. Installation
Safety Note: Ensure the CO2 cylinder is turned off before starting. Work in a well-ventilated area, and keep the system away from heat sources or direct sunlight.
Attach Regulator to CO2 Cylinder:
- Inspect the regulator and cylinder valve for damage or debris. Ensure the O-ring on the regulator’s cylinder connection is intact.
- Securely screw the regulator onto the CO2 cylinder’s valve (W21.8 threads) by hand, then tighten gently with a wrench if needed. Do not overtighten.
Optional Manifold Extension:
- If supplying multiple tanks, attach CO2 Aquarist Manifold Extensions (up to 4) to the regulator’s output.
- Follow the manifold’s instructions (How to Use Instruction) to connect additional tubing and diffusers for each tank
Connect Tubing and Accessories:
- Attach CO2-resistant tubing (4/6 mm) to the manifold’s output port.
- CO2 diffuser installed in the aquarium.
- Ensure all connections are secure to prevent leaks.
Connect to Solenoid: Plug the solenoid into a timer synced with your aquarium lighting (e.g., start CO2 2–3 hours before lights turn on and stop when lights turn off). This conserves CO2 and aligns with plant photosynthesis cycles.
3. Setup and Calibration
Turn On the CO2 Cylinder: Slowly open the cylinder valve (counterclockwise) to pressurize the system. The high-pressure gauge will show the cylinder’s remaining pressure.
Set Working Pressure: Adjust the regulator’s main valve to set the working pressure to 25–40 PSI, suitable for most diffusers. Check the low-pressure gauge (0–150 PSI) to confirm.
Adjust CO2 Flow:
- Open the high-precision needle valve slowly to start CO2 flow. Aim for an initial rate of 1 bubble per second per 50 liters of tank water, visible in the bubble counter.
- For high CO2 saturation (e.g., high-tech planted tanks), increase to 4–5 bubbles per second, but adjust gradually while monitoring.
Check for Leaks: Apply soapy water to all connections (regulator-to-cylinder, tubing, etc.) and look for bubbles. Tighten connections if leaks are detected.
Fine-Tune for Each Tank: If using manifold extensions, adjust each manifold’s needle valve independently to set the appropriate bubble rate for each aquarium.
4. Monitor CO2 Levels
- pH Drop Method: Use a pH/KH test kit to measure CO2 levels. Aim for a 1-point pH drop from when CO2 is off to peak saturation (typically 25–35 ppm CO2 for plant growth). Adjust the needle valve gradually, as there may be a lag in CO2 saturation.
- Observe Livestock: Monitor fish and invertebrates for signs of stress (e.g., gasping at the surface), indicating excessive CO2. Reduce the bubble rate if needed. Introduce animals when CO2 is off (e.g., after a water change) to allow gradual adjustment.
- Drop Checker (Optional): If using a drop checker, place it in the tank away from the diffuser. A green color indicates optimal CO2 (25–35 ppm); adjust the needle valve if it’s blue (too low) or yellow (too high).
5. Maintenance
- Regular Checks: Inspect the bubble counter, check valve, and tubing for blockages or wear. Clean with a damp cloth and avoid using solvents.
- Cylinder Refills: Monitor the inlet pressure gauge to estimate when the CO2 cylinder needs refilling (typically every 4–6 months for a 3kg cylinder on a 160 litre tank).
- Solenoid Operation: If using a solenoid, ensure it shuts off CO2 when not needed to prevent overuse and maintain safety.
- Dust Prevention: Cover the regulator when not in use to avoid dust buildup, and clean with a blower if necessary.
Tips for Success
- Start Low: Begin with a low CO2 injection rate and gradually increase while monitoring pH and livestock to avoid overdosing.
- Sync with Lighting: CO2 is only needed during photosynthesis (when lights are on). Use a solenoid timer to automate injection for efficiency.
- Compatibility Caution: While manifold blocks from different brands may look similar, compatibility with the CO2 Aquarist regulator is not guaranteed. Stick to CO2 Aquarist manifold extensions for reliability.
- Plant Growth: Expect faster, healthier plant growth with vibrant coloration, as demonstrated in experiments where CO2-injected tanks showed superior growth compared to non-CO2 tanks.
Warnings
- Indoor Use Only: The system is designed for indoor use to avoid temperature extremes or condensation issues.
- Livestock Safety: Over-injection of CO2 can lower pH and harm fish. Always monitor and adjust gradually.
- Professional Installation: Some steps (e.g., manifold attachment) may require care to avoid damaging O-rings or joints. If unsure, consult a professional or the manufacturer’s service team.
Specifications:
- Model: CO2 Aquarist Ultimate Dual Stage Regulator
- Gauges: Dual (cylinder pressure and output pressure)
- Stages: Dual-stage
- Inlet Port: W21.8-14 European Standard (AU/NZ compatible)
- Output Pressure: Adjustable, 0–70 PSI
- Output Pressure Gauge: 0–140 PSI
- Inlet Pressure Gauge: 0–3000 PSI
- Solenoid: 12V DC, 3W
- Manifolds: 1 (expandable to 5 with additional blocks)
- Components: Regulator, bubble counter, integrated check valve, spanner, Allen wrench
- Material: Aluminum alloy and stainless steel
- Tubing Compatibility: Standard 4/6 mm (3/16″ inner diameter) CO2-proof tubing
- Applications: Suitable for nano to large aquariums (5L to 5000L)
