Review on 🌱 2L ZRDR Co2 Generator System for Aquarium Plants - Pressure Gauge, Automatic Pressure Relief Valve, Bubble Counter, Stable Output - Steel Bottle Base Included by Bridgette Andrada

Before I actually talk about the quality/rating of the product, I would first like to address the main complaint people have about all these DIY systems - solenoid overheating. They are sold under different names ZRDR, FZONE etc. In fact, these are the same kits. Most of them may have slight differences in the regulators and/or solenoids. FZONE is more expensive and forces you to buy a lot separately. As for the solenoids - yes, some have problems with overheating and those that don't heat up. Here's a simple basic electronics lesson, it's all about power and energy. The reason most high end and especially high pressure CO2 systems use 110v solenoids is because they are simply more reliable and operate with less cooling. While most people think that higher voltage means it has to run harder and warmer, that's not the case. It's not about excitement, it's about performance. More voltage, less current. Lower voltage, higher current. Now that I've bought my first unit, the original magnet only lasted 12 hours and got VERY hot. If you look at my photo, it was far right style. They sent me a replacement, but I also ordered a Milwaukee, Extaum, and FZONE magnet to compare. The replacement FRDR sent was style #2 (medium). The second and third sets I ordered were also style #2. This style, when kept warm, doesn't generate ridiculous heat and will fade in a couple of hours. Style #1 on the far left is what FZONE and Milwaukee sent in. As you can see, they are more voluminous. However, running is much cooler than resting. The only thing is that when you order this type of solenoid, most of them come as built-in models and do not have connectors to mount directly on the regulator. Extaum's Low Temperature model allows you to order any style. So the rule of thumb is if you order and it arrives with the solenoid pictured at right, you WILL replace it. When it arrives with the one pictured in the middle it will get hot but shouldn't fail. My suggestion, order a kit and order style #1 and you're done. A little more money and you will be happy. I also noticed reading all the reviews about it (all the different listings) that the vast majority of those complaining about overheating portrayed the solenoid on the right side. So apparently ZRDR recognized the problem and changed it at some point. OK, that's all. As for the quality of everything - AMAZING. Also after reading ALL the reviews the few that complained about "leaks" were obviously user error as the ONLY possibility for a "leak" is with the o-ring not seating/sealing. If you have one, take a look at how they are made, leakage due to manufacturer issues is next to impossible. I was so impressed (even through experience/research with the solenoid) that I now own 3 of these, both single and dual sensor models. You can't beat the price (even if you replace the solenoid). The kits are supplied complete (excluding water, citric acid and baking soda). Comes with a base, the diffuser is better than the cheap plastic FZONE gives you. Supplied with spare parts (O-ring, filter and diffuser) Supplied with magnet (surcharge for FZONE). All stainless steel construction. After using it, after entering 3 of them, here are some tips: DO NOT follow any idiots on YouTube when refilling - follow the simple instructions on the tank. Measure the ingredients with a small kitchen scale. Add each powder separately and DO NOT pre-mix. Pour in the water last. Great tip, although you can do it yourself it's a lot less painless if you have an extra pair of hands. The woman holds the tank at a 45 degree angle. while I add the ingredients, then seal. As soon as you add water, the reaction starts, so you have to act quickly. Second in terms of setting the flow etc. I have a 40 gallon, also a 55 gallon. I set the speed pretty low to 1-2 bubbles per second. I also set a timer on the solenoid for 2 hours on, 1 off, 2 on, 1 off until evening when it turns off for the night. BOTH the tank's drop checkers work in green and the plants are very happy with this setup. Also, the solenoids don't heat up all day. Runs 2 hours, then rests 1 hour. In addition, CO2 is saved. Ultimately, you want your levels to be correct, but this duty cycle and flow rate keeps mine all green. I hope this helps, especially with solenoid problems. I know this is long but when I tried to do the research there was literally NO information on the subject - only complaints. And when some people say they're hot and some people say they're warm and so on, it's confusing.