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Review on 🌱 ZRDR CO2 Generator System with Dual Gauge Display and Automatic Pressure Relief Valve 2L Carbon Dioxide Supply for Plants and Aquarium, Stable Output by Stephen Tharpe

Revainrating 5 out of 5

Phenomenal available CO2!

I am very happy with this system. It is a good alternative to compressed CO2. The instructions are very clear, with photos showing each installation step. The only time I ran into an issue was getting the pressure set right. When I first plugged it in, the bubble counter valve was fully open, causing all of the water from the bubble counter to burst the channel, so had to I stop, refill the bubble counter, and then it took another 20 minutes to figure out what it was. Also, the check valve broke, allowing the CO2 to escape before it got into the aquarium. So I just completely removed the check valve for now until I could get another one, and completely disconnected the hose at the end of each day to prevent siphoning. But once I figured out how to work with both gauges and chose my gauge, it was dead easy to work from then on. I would recommend checking before plugging in and making sure the bubble counter valve is fully closed and at the recommended pressure, and opening it very slowly to get the right amount. The top valve controls the pressure throughout the system, so you can quickly open it to release pressure when the gauge starts showing red. I've never had to do this, but in the last month I've had to pull it up a couple of times due to loss of pressure. That all sounds a lot more complicated than it is, I promise. I just ran out of my first set of mixes and it lasted about 40 days at 2-3 bps in a 30 gallon rimless tank. I noticed a difference in my plants just a few days after running the CO2. They grow beautifully and the pearls alone are worth it. I have also noticed a significant reduction in algae. In summary, I think it's a phenomenal alternative to more expensive systems. I also like the clean and sleek look of this stainless steel system on my aquarium. I later bought a stainless steel check valve and replaced the included diffuser with a glass diffuser. I also installed a glass dropper on the opposite side of the tank to keep track of how much CO2 is in the water. The whole setup looks very nice and high quality. I plugged it into a smart socket to turn the system on and off with my phone and it currently turns on automatically 90 minutes before the lights come on. in the morning and turn off 2 hours before turning off the lights in the evening. Like I said, once you have all of that set up, it's very easy. I would highly recommend this to anyone looking for an easy, inexpensive way to start CO2 in a planted aquarium. Just check the meters from time to time as they will fluctuate as the mix is used up and enjoy the beautiful pearl plants you will be growing!** 10 months. Update: The system still works fantastic. I've since switched to a 50 gallon rimless tank and have to top off the mix at 2 bps about every 3-4 weeks. It works so efficiently that I even forgot to check when the mix ran out and needed topping up. So I set a reminder on my phone that notifies me every 4 weeks to check the system. It takes me less than 10 minutes to flush, refill and plug it back in. I've switched the diffuser back to a more efficient type but plan to switch to an in-line diffuser soon so it looks even cleaner. I highly recommend this DIY CO2 system. Couldn't be happier with the look and results. If I can afford it I will order a second one for my other tank.

Pros
  • Great Price
Cons
  • Fair