Gen X CO2 Pressure Regulator

[LoneStar]

Anyone currently using this setup? How well do you like it? Seems like a good deal for what it comes with.

Gen X CO2 Pressure Regulator (http://www.premiumaquatics.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=GEN-XCO2REG&Category_Code=co2units)

http://www.premiumaquatics.com/pacificcoast/genxco2.jpg

[fiji2000]

I have one that I have been using for about 6 months. I have not had any problems with it. (Let’s all knock on wood now). The only thing I have noticed is that the adjustment can change and an adjustment may be needed from time to time. This is not related to CO2 tank pressure. Also the low side pressure is fixed and not adjustable. I don’t have any experience with any other brand so I could not say if this adjustment issue is a big deal.

Russell
Fiji2000

[LoneStar]

Thanks for the response. Since I'm not sure if a lot of people have checked this thread out, MRC has a dual gauge regulator, a solenoid valve, built in bubble counter, and check valve. Seems like a good deal at $90. Anyone got any thoughts?

http://www.myreefcreations.com/picts/ma975.jpg
http://www.myreefcreations.com/caaccessories.htm

[matt]

The best way to regulate CO2 flow is with the dwyer flowmeter. It's $40 and is much better at holding steady CO2 flow at the very slow rates we need for reactors.

Most reactors have bubble counters so I don't see any advantage in buying a reg with one; best thing is to just find any regulator that will take the pressure down to 25-30psi and run the output through the flowmeter, then to bubble counter and you're set. You can also buy expensive regulators with high precision needle valves, but they're no better than the flowmeter, usually not as good.

[LoneStar]

Got a website that sells them matt?

[TexasState]

I can't comment on the GenX since I don't have any experience with it.

Some of the other cheaper Co2 regulator brands have quality problems (not naming any names). The needle valve/bubble counts tends to fluctuate from the solenoid shutting on and off. If you build your own, you can make a better kit out of quality parts (check those freshwater planted tank website.) If that's too much trouble for you to research and build, I highly reccommend the Azoo regulator/solenoid from DFS. Last I check it's $75 with limited time free holiday shipping. You can also ask the local fish stores to order the Azoo regulator from the distributor (AquaticEco).

If you have extra money, get the MMM regulator/solenoid for around $150.

Remember to also get a good quality check valve. The Co2 will corrode those $2 check valve from Petsmart.