DIY CO2 Scrubber

[ReeferWarrant]

Anyone try to use the Algae Barn Phytoplankton bottle to create a DIY Scrubber? I was looking at probably drilling a hole in the small chamber with tubing and water in that. Then in the bottom larger chamber have the Soda Lime in and a hole for piping to the Skimmer at the top of the other opening. Thoughts?

 

[ChgoGoodGirl]

If you try it please post your 'build'! Id love to know how it works out.

 

[ReeferWarrant]

What I’m planning on doing.

 

[ChgoGoodGirl]

I dont see why it wouldn't work but then again, Ive never used a co2 scrubber let alone made one. Can't wait to see how it works for you!

 

[ReeferWarrant]

So, I finally got around to making this. Pretty simple run, took the valve that regulates the air going into my Skimmer and extended the air hose to the Algae Barn bottle. Filled the large portion with Soda Lime and put about 10 mL of water in the small portion. Drilled the holes and ran the 3/16" hose through it (Soda Lime side to Skimmer, and Water side to valve/air intake).

Items:
Soda Lime
3/16" Air Hose
Algae Barn Phytoplankton Bottle

I'm curious if this makes much of a difference, did a reading of my pH and it sits around 7.8-8.0. We'll see in about a week if this helps.

 

[ReeferWarrant]

Well, I just returned from my work trip. I did a pH test this morning and the reading is at 8.0, I'm curious to see what it is later in the day. The affects may be marginal, but it looks like a small increase in pH and I really didnt spend much to create it with everything already being on hand except the Soda Lime.

 

[Philly Reefer]

So.. newb question, wont the air that is sucked out by the skimmer run out on that small container? Or are they replenish by the fresh water going in the lime?

 

[ReeferWarrant]

I'll have to post pictures of the final build. I took the valve from the skimmer and put it on the right most/smaller cap to allow air in but to also regulate it.

 

[HockeyRooster]

Cool idea. I’d like to see the finished product.

 

[Philly Reefer]

I'll have to post pictures of the final build. I took the valve from the skimmer and put it on the right most/smaller cap to allow air in but to also regulate it.

Ooo I think I know what you mean. So its recirculating. From the top of the skimmer cup, you have a valve and air line that goes to the fresh water side of the bottle

 

[Philly Reefer]

I guess the one I dont know is. Will that fresh water drop to the lime chamber? And it will produce o2?

I am interested in this too because I do have that bottle and I can possibly recreate what you do. And I have my apex monitor my pH in real time(10mins increment) I can change that down to 1min

 

[ReeferWarrant]

Cool, if you order the Soda Lime I think I got mine on Pet med way cheaper than Amazons option just FYI.

 

[ReeferWarrant]

Yeah, just pulling in air from the room into the water chamber. Then from there following to the Soda Lime chamber through the cap to my skimmer.

 

[Adamantium]

How'd this work out for you?

Also, what purpose does the water serve?

 

[ReeferWarrant]

@Adamantium nothing noticeable in changes probably minor but the water/moisture activates the soda lime from what I gather. I also haven’t been topping the water off so that might be a reason in itself.

 

[rowenaad]

i know this is an old thread and op is not around anymore, but still wanna say thank you! This works like a magic. I happen to have a 1liter bottle and its immediately boosting the ph for my 20 gallon. $$$ saved and can easily refill the water at anytime