CO2 QUESTIONS

[rodekyll]

Ok -- I'm a personal-use/medical-type who likes lo-to-no-tech solutions to most of my problems. Reading up on some of these advanced techniques though makes me want to try some real science on my plants. One experiment i want to try is this co2 enrichment. I've finally found a place that will sell me some, and I have in-hand a 20# bottle. Now what?

I've read in this forum where people try to raise levels to about 1500ppm - 2000ppm (corrections to these levels are welcome, folks!). Is there some sort of regulator out there with a solenoid, perhaps, that senses when the level hits a given saturation and shuts off? How about one that senses both the level and the amount of time it's been on? Do I just let the stuff leak out a hose and guess?

All input welcome!

[karmaxul]

http://www.wormsway.com/detail.asp?sku=CCC602

The Fuzzy Logic CO2 Controller is a "smart" controller that maintains CO2 levels by bringing levels up without overshooting the desired level. Sensors in the unit measure CO2 levels from 0-5,000 ppm (parts-per-million); simply choose a set point for the controller to maintain. Connect the unit to an environmental or temperature controller and CO2 production can be disabled when exhaust fans are running.

This controller can run both compressed CO2 and gas-burning generators, and has two control modes, Fuzzy Logic and On/Off. Running in On/Off mode turns down the sensitivity of the unit and eliminates rapid cycling of the solenoid. The Fuzzy Logic CO2 Controller is a powerful unit that will work with any CO2 valve or generator that is 120 volt. Controller carries a 3-year warranty.

$689.95

One love
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[rodekyll]

Thanks for pointing me toward thiat fuzzy logic unit. I used its specs to decide what I really need for my tiny garden. I decided that the essential requirements are that

1) it can sense ppm of co2 and control the release of gas to maintain that level;

2) It runs only during daylight hours

3) During daylight hours, I can choose blocks of time during which it will operate.

I found two items on ebay that combined with simple 24-hr timers should do all that for under $200. One item is a two-stage tank valve with a flow meter and an electric solenoid. Cost (shipped) $93.20. The other is a co2 monitor panel that is adjustable for the ppm range needed. It includes a relay which will trip off when the level I want is reached. Cost (shipped) $98.00. I connect the two pieces, plug into a 24-hour timer and plug that into my light timer. By synching the two timers I can choose how long and during what part of the day I want to enrich the atmosphere.

You'll immediately notice that I'm not looking at venting for heat or humidity, which seems to be a basic component for most of these greenhouse regulators. I'm at the mid-day of my veg phase right now, with 69f and 39%rh. In the middel of summer, I've only recorded 90f back there once. Heat isn't a problem in Alaska . . .

[karmaxul]

Can you see the northern lights from where you are?

One love
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[rodekyll]

Yes, that's a pic of the northern lights in my post. Photographing the lights is my "night job." I live for the opportunities!

[karmaxul]

Beautiful, where is the best place to see them I feel like taking a trip.
got any full size ones you can post if you get bored, please.

One love
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[turtle420]

Yes, that's a pic of the northern lights in my post. Photographing the lights is my "night job." I live for the opportunities!
Wow RodEkyll... If you could post one or two pictures of your night job, it'd be excellent... you'd really send me on a trip...

Beautifull lights!

Oh, and it'd be great if you post pictures of your plants as they come along... lol :dance:

Best,

-turtle420 :cool:
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Beautiful, where is the best place to see them I feel like taking a trip.
got any full size ones you can post if you get bored, please.

One love
c
:thumbsup: :thumbsup: :dance: :dance: :thumbsup: :thumbsup: :) :)