14 Most Reliable and Effective Aquarium CO2 Regulators

If you are scouring the market for a new CO2 regulator, you might find that you have any questions about the different features offered. There is a huge list to select from, and the most outstanding one is not always apparent.

Luckily, you have come to the right place.

We have picked 14 of the most popular CO2 regulators for aquariums, helping you identify the differences between them. Besides, we also provide a buying guide where we break down a CO2 regulator to see what the important components are.

Now it’s time to start!

CO2 Regulators for Planted Aquariums

To provide your plants with carbon dioxide, you will need to get a CO2 regulator kit. The regulator screws onto the CO2 tank.

It takes control over the pressure leaving the aquarium. A gauge on the regulator indicates the volume of pressure inside the bottle.

The regulator decreases the pressure, so you can add a small gas stream to the tank. The flow of gas to the tank will be controlled by a fine-adjustment valve.

The CO2 runs from the valve ria silicone tubing and into a diffuser adhered inside the tank. The tubing and diffuser are not always provided with the regulator.

You will need a regulator made for aquarium use. Industrial CO2 regulators are short of the fine-adjustment valve needed to control the small amount of gas used in a planted tank.

There will be an airline hose running from the regulator to a diffuser. The CO2 must disperse into the water so it can reach the plants. A diffuser creates tiny bubbles that help the CO2 diffuse into the water.

Some CO2 regulators consist of a bubble counter that allows you to see the rate of gas flow entering the tank. Most CO2 regulators include an electronic solenoid valve, enabling automatic shut-off of gas at night.

Here are components of CO2 regulators:

• Threaded connector for paintball or big gas tank
• Bubble counter
• Fine-adjustment valve
• Gauges for tank and gas flow pressures
• Electronic solenoid valve

Top 14 Best Aquarium CO2 Regulators:

1. AQUATEK CO2 Regulator Mini

The Aquatek CO2 regulator runs with paintball CO2 tanks. The Mini version is packed with low and high-pressure gauges for tank and flow tracking.

The bubble counter enables you to see whether gas is flowing. The regulator comprises a fine needle valve for fine-tuning the flow rate. The solenoid valve can be attached to an outlet timer to switch the system on and off.

The manufacturer recommends this CO2 regulator for smaller aquariums that use paintball bottles.

The Premium Aquatek regulator with integrated Cool Touch Solenoid includes all the same features but has a bigger regulator. The Aquatek Basic unit is like the Premium and provides a separate bubble counter. These two CO2 regulators are proper for larger tanks that require more CO2.

Pros

• Dual gauges
• Include a solenoid valve

Cons

• Only work with paintball gas bottles
• The needle valve tends to be fragile.

2. CO2art PRO-SE Dual Stage Regulator 

The CO2art regulator is a two-stage item made for use with planted tanks and reef aquariums. This two-stage regulator includes twin-gauges, allowing you to observe the pressure in the CO2 tank and the pressure being transferred to the second stage.

The second stage is the pressure at the fine-adjustment valve. The advantage of a two-stage regulator is that you can lower the pressure exiting the system, making it simpler to manage the flow rate with the needle valve.

In addition, the regulator consists of a low-voltage solenoid valve. The solenoid valve enables you to automatically turn the CO2 fertilization on and off. You can switch the valve on and off with a simple timer or an improved automated aquarium system.

The needle valve enables very accurate flow adjustments. You can make adjustments by checking your CO2 diffuser or with the bubble counter.

The bubble counter helps you see the flow rate into the tank as you can see each bubble increase in the counter. A lot of aquarists find out how many bubbles per second or similar time frames are necessary to maintain the ideal CO2 level in their aquarium.

This CO2 regulator can handle up to 80 psi and can implement different manifolds. That means a single CO2 tank can offer CO2 to a few aquariums. You can include up to five manifolds.

Pros

• High-grade construction
• Spare parts available
• 10-year warranty
• Good tutorial videos

Cons

• When using different manifolds, the solenoid valve turns all the CO2 outlets off, not individually.

3. FZONE Aquarium CO2 Regulator 

This is a high-quality CO2 regulator unit that works nearly silently while handling even large pressurized canisters.

An incredible feature added is that the bubble counter is installed directly onto the model. As usual, you need to buy one separately and add it in-line or use one installed into your diffuser. Getting the bubble counter directly on your CO2 regulator will keep everything related to pressurization in one place for immediate measurements.

Moreover, the FZONE regulator is a low-power unit. Most CO2 regulators likely run hot enough that you don’t want to touch. This model only consumes 2.5 Watts of power and stays cool in spite of constant use.

It does need an adapter if you’re using it for a paintball CO2 canister, which means this unit is meant for larger CO2 canisters. Besides, the solenoid can be used with any electric time and will automatically shut down in case of a power cut. Therefore, you can set up an electric timer to turn the solenoid on and off when your plants need CO2.

Furthermore, you can implement fine adjustments with the control knob. While it can work for some of the biggest CO2 tanks, you can decrease the flow to as fine as one bubble per three seconds

Pros

• Lower power usage
• Quiet and cool operation
• Dual pressure gauges for precise readings
• Preinstalled bubble counter

Cons

• Quiet buzzing sound audible in silent conditions
• Paintball CO2 canister adapter not provided

4. Fzone Aquarium CO2 Regulator Triple Stage 

Another CO2 regulator option comes from the Fzone brand. This unit is made for use with paintball and regular gas canisters.

The kit covers an adapter for either sort of gas container.

The single pressure gauge displays the tank’s status. A fine needle valve enables you to dial in just the proper quantity of gas flow. The bubble counter offers a visible indication of gas flow.

Moreover, the CO2 regulator works as a check valve, which prevents water from back-siphoning down the airline tube. The unit also consists of a 12V solenoid valve for managing the system with your outlet timer.

Pros

• High-grade aluminum and stainless steel components
• Simple to adjust the gas flow
• Include adjustment tools
• Work with every type of gas container

Cons

• There is only one gauge.

5. KIPA CO2 Regulator

The KIPA CO2 regulator is a cost-efficient item that can be bought as the regulator with solenoid and hose, regulator and hose, just regulator, or just hose.

This CO2 regulator comes with a simple flow meter, easy-to-use pressure gauge, and AC solenoid. The most economical way to buy this unit includes the regulator, hose, solenoid, and 3-prong plug. The flow meter can be programmed from 0 to 25 liters per minute. It is also easy to set up this unit without using special tools.

To make sure the regulator does not leak CO2, you should install it with Teflon tape on the threads to create a secure connection. Note that the regulator might keep releasing CO2 after being unplugged for some time.

Pros

• Four purchasing options
• Made from strong copper
• Include an easy-to-use flow meter and pressure gauge
• No special tools required for installation

Cons

• Might leak CO2 without Teflon tape added to the connection threads
• Use an AC solenoid which consumes more energy than a DC solenoid

6. VIVOSUN CO2 Regulator Emitter System 

The VIVOSUN CO2 Regulator comes equipped with an industrial solenoid valve and is constructed from sturdy brass components.

This unit includes a single pressure gauge that is just more than 1.5 inches in diameter and is attached to the body of the regulator. There is a flow meter that can be adjusted by the simple turn of a knob.

Additionally, this CO2 regulator consists of a three-prong plug, with just 16 feet of black plastic dispensing tubing, and two plastic washers. The solenoid is also compatible with timers, enabling you to get a hands-off approach once set.

One thing to remember is that you might need to apply Teflon tape to the threads of the tubing to make sure the connection is tight and no CO2 is leaked. Plus, the CO2 bubble rate of this unit is not super accurate, so you should monitor carefully.

Pros

• Industrial solenoid valve
• Made with durable brass components
• Easy to adjust the flow meter with a knob turn
• Single large pressure gauge is easy to read

Cons

• Might leak CO2 without Teflon ta[e added to the connection threads
• Not very accurate

7. FZONE Pro Series Aquarium Dual Stage CO2 Regulator 

This FZONE CO2 regulator uses a 12 V DC solenoid, so it is consistent and consumes less energy than the old school AV solenoid. It is constructed from high-quality aluminum.

The CO2 regulator contains two manifold blocks with high-precision needle valves that can be operated separately. This enables you to use this regulator for one or two independent tanks.

The unit has an adjustable output pressure from 0 to 65 PSI, preventing CO2 dumps and other unwanted complications. Additionally, it comes with a built-in safety valve that will automatically open when PSI surpasses 100 and the CO2 output can be programmed as low as a bubble every three seconds.

What’s more, the CO2 regulator is packed with low and high-pressure gauges, a bubble counter, a sealing ring, a pressure adjusting knob and easy-to-use needle valves.

Pros

• Use 12V DC solenoid
• Durable aluminum construction
• Two manifold blocks that can be se independently and used for two aquariums
• Adjustable output pressure to avoid CO2 dumping
• Provide tools for installation

Cons

• High price
• CO2 might keep being released upwards of an hour after shut off.

8. YaeTek CO2 Regulator Aquarium Mini 

The CO2 regulator from YaeTek is properly compatible with most brands of high-density CO2 injection tubing. It utilizes a 110V AC solenoid.

The manufacture aims to produce a CO2 regulator that conveniently operates with the setup or product you already own. This CO2 regulator comprises a bubble counter with a high-grade, high-pressure check valve, large dual pressure gauges, and some installation tools.

This unit distributes fine CO2 bubbles, enabling for the more diffuse spread of CO2 into the water.

Despite being cost-efficient, the item is not created to last and will need a replacement within one year or so.

Pros

• Able to work with CO2 atomizers and diffusers from other brands
• Diffuse tiny CO2 bubble
• Cost-efficient

Cons

• Require replacment within a year
• Continue releasing CO2 after being unplugged
• Use an AC solenoid that consumes more energy than a DC solenoid

9. JARDLI CO2 Aquarium Regulator 

If you’re keeping an aquarium up to 400 gallons of water, the JARDLI CO2 regulator can be a good option. The body of the unit is constructed from top-grade aluminum and has a stainless steel finish.

This robust CO2 regulator can read up to 70 PSI of pressure that is proper for small to large-sized tanks.

It is powered by a Solenoid valve that ensures quiet operation inside your aquarium. The valve also consumes little energy and can keep the device cool during operation.

Additionally, the unit can work with the majority of CO2 tanks that cover all full size, disposable and paintball cartridges.

Pros

• Read up to 70 PSI
• High-quality aluminum body
• Energy-effective

Cons

• Some customers complained about its durability.

10. S.T. International Aquarium CO2 Regulator 

The S.T. International CO2 regulator is produced with chrome-plated metal. It includes dual gauges that help you monitor both the internal tank and outgoing line pressurization.

The electric solenoid valve will help switch the gas on and off with your timer. This is also a standard industrial fine control valve for flow adjustment.

This CO2 regulator is recommended for nano tanks that depend on small paintball CO2 bottles.

Pros

• Dual gauges
• Include an adapter for US paintball bottles

Cons

• Not include a bubble counter and a check valve
• Difficult to use the fine-adjustment valve

11. MOD Complete Aquarium CO2 Regulator 

The powerful MOD CO2 regulator can create from 150 to 2000 PSI inside your aquarium, so you can use the device in any medium to large-sized tank.

The regulator comes with a dual gauge feature that allows you to precisely read and check the pressure inside your tank. Besides, the unit is constructed to supply the proper quantity of CO2 as per different time requirements.

Moreover, the model is made from high-grade stainless steel, ensuring its durability and longevity.

Pros

• Compatible with most CO2 atomizers and diffusers on the market
• Dual gauges and dual display meters
• Stainless steel body

Cons

• The solenoid can be noisy.

12. DoubleSun Aquarium CO2 Regulator 

The DoubleSun CO2 regulator is made from durable metal that is less prone to rust and corrosion. The unit comes equipped with tightening tools, an additional seal ring, and a hex wrench.

The threads for coupling are greatly forged so that independent parts are connected seamlessly and sealed properly. The manufacture has applied professional sealing technology, so you don’t need to worry about leaking problems.

What’s more, this CO2 regulator includes a micro-adjust valve to control the CO2 output with ease. The precise fine-tuning is simple with the valve, and the unit can keep the output flow stay consistent.

Moreover, it’s possible to check the number of bubbles with a trim valve, which aids in measuring CO2 dosing. A check valve is attached to the bubble counter to avoid backflow. This is because water might run back to the tube by the siphoning effect and harm the CO2 system.

Pros

• Good quality item at an affordable price
• Dual gauges for tracking cylinder pressure and output pressure
• Enhanced solenoid design for proper output and stability
• Precise fine-tuning thanks to the micro-adjust valve

Cons

• The micro-adjust valve is quite sensitive and requires some handwork.
• The solenoid does not operate with DC power.

13. ZRDR Aquarium CO2 Regulator 

The selling point of the ZRDR Aquarium Co2 Regulator is the high precision of control. It consists of a bubble counter to track the CO2 output, and you can set it to create bubbles as low as 1 per three seconds. Proper control over CO2 dosing will help your plants grow and your fish stay healthy.

The bubble counter is attached to a check valve that avoids the reverse flow of water to the CO2 system. If water runs back to the regulator, it can lead to damage.

Notably, this CO2 regulator provides two big dual gauge displays, making it easy to read. The two meters indicate the CO2 bottle pressure and the output pressure. Comparing the two pressure values, then you will know how appropriately the regulator is operating.

Pros

• Large pressure gauges for better viewing
• Accurate control
• Sound-free and reliable solenoid
• Easy to install and set up

Cons

• Require an extra adapter to use the regulator with paintball bottles

14. Tunze CO2 Dual Gauge Regulator

Tunze has been producing aquarium products for more than 45 years. The Tunze CO2 regulator is made for standard (CGA-320) CO2 tanks.

It consists of two gauges to display the status of the aquarium pressure and the lower pressure being brought to the needle valve.

The low-pressure gauge allows you to adjust the regulator to decrease the pressure at the valve, so you can make fine adjustments with ease.

This CO2 regulator can be hand-tightened to the gas bottles without using any tools. Plus, there is a built-in pressure relief valve included.

The Tunze regulator unit is an ideal choice for heavily-planted tanks that have larger gas bottles.

Pros

• German-engineered regulator
• Dual gauges for easier viewing
• Fine-adjustment valve
• No tools required

Cons

• Not work on paintball bottles
• Not come with a solenoid valve

The Buying Guide For Aquarium CO2 Regulators

Safety

The carbon dioxide is intensely cold since it leaves the pressurized canisters and can lead to instant damage to your skin, so never open an unregulated valve.

While adding CO2 to your tank is not often regarded to be dangerous, there are several safety measures you should take to ensure there is no danger. You can perform the soapy water test on all equipment on a regular basis, making sure no CO2 is leaking into the air. The gas is not dangerous, but if there is too much of it in a small space, it can push out the oxygen. Low oxygen levels will be severe in small, encased rooms or spaces.

To do the soapy water test, you combine one teaspoon of dish soap with one cup of water. You can also use a small paintbrush to paint the water over the connections and hoses. If bubbles rise as you’re painting, you get a leak that requires repair.

Drop Checker

The drop checker does not belong to aquarium CO2 regulators. The device allows you to find out the precise amount of CO2 to add to your water. The proper amount can range a bit, depending on how many plants you want to raise, how much light reaches the water, how much the water flows around, how many fish you keep, and how big your tank is.

The drop checker is often attached to your aquarium. Inside the unit is a fluid that modifies color, depending on the carbon dioxide present in the air. In most cases, blue means you should add more, while yellow means you need to cut back. You will want to maintain the color green by adjusting the flow accordingly.

Durability

You should pay attention to the quality of the regulator’s material. Higher quality bands are likely stainless steel and brass. Moreover, you also need to look at the quality construction of the hoses, meters, and washers.

Ensure there are no malformed or bent hoses as these can wear out soon.

Ease of Use

It should be simple to install and include all the accurate size fittings. And it also should be easy to get the precise amount of CO2 entering your aquarium.

Gauges

Your CO2 regulator typically includes one or two gauges. If there is only one, the gauge shows how much CO2 is left in the aquarium. If there are two, the second one indicates the pressure that will go into your tank.

Needle Valve

Needle valves are also known as pressure relief valves that ensure accurate control over the quantity of CO2 entering your tank. These valves enable you to adjust the bubbles per second.

Bubble Counter

The bubble counter is an additional part of some CO2 regulators, helping you to check how much CO2 is entering your aquarium by counting the bubbles in the chamber. Using bubble counters will increase precision effectively, but you usually need to buy them separately.

Solenoid

You need to get an electrical solenoid on your regulator if you want to automate the CO2 delivery system. An automated system is more preferred to a manual one as it is more stable and can ensure more even levels of CO2 over time.

AC Solenoid

Solenoids come in two types, including AC and DC.

AC solenoids leverage alternating current directly from your wall, which is less pricey and less complicated. However, they can produce a significant amount of hum and tend to get warm, which might result in overheating and malfunction. They also consume more power as well.

DC Solenoid

DC solenoids utilize direct current by using a battery or converting electricity in your house. These devices are more expensive but run quietly and cool. The main downside to these solenoids is that it’s difficult to tell when the battery needs replacing.

Check Valve

The check valve is a crucial component that might not be included in your regulator. Its key function is to prevent your tank water from entering the regulator. If water goes into the regulator valve, you will have to get a new one.

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Our Suggested Picks for Best Aquarium CO2 Regulators

#	Product Name	Image	Price	Action
1	AQUATEK CO2 Regulator Mini		$$	Buy on Amazon!
2	CO2art PRO-SE Dual Stage Regulator		$$$	Buy on Amazon!
3	FZONE Aquarium CO2 Regulator		$$	Buy on Amazon!
4	Fzone Aquarium CO2 Regulator Triple Stage		$$	Buy on Amazon!
5	KIPA CO2 Regulator		$	Buy on Amazon!
6	VIVOSUN CO2 Regulator Emitter System		$$	Buy on Amazon!
7	FZONE Pro Series Aquarium Dual Stage CO2 Regulator		$$	Buy on Amazon!
8	YaeTek CO2 Regulator Aquarium Mini		$$	Buy on Amazon!
9	JARDLI CO2 Aquarium Regulator		$$	Buy on Amazon!
10	S.T. International Aquarium CO2 Regulator		$$	Buy on Amazon!
11	MOD Complete Aquarium CO2 Regulator		$$	Buy on Amazon!
12	DoubleSun Aquarium CO2 Regulator		$$	Buy on Amazon!
13	ZRDR Aquarium CO2 Regulator		$$	Buy on Amazon!
14	Tunze CO2 Dual Gauge Regulator		$$	Buy on Amazon!

While all of these CO2 regulators offer a way to add CO2 to your tank, a few options stick out from the list.

The Fzone Triple Stage comes with all the features necessary to support your planted tank. The regulator includes an adapter enabling it to be used on standard and paintball gas bottles. The fine-adjustment valve is designed to modify gas flow down to a small amount.

Meanwhile, if you intend to use a large CO2 gas bottle and don’t need a solenoid valve, the Tunze CO2 Dual Gauge Regulator is a good choice. It includes a purpose-built fine adjustment valve and a rugged, high-quality build. You can include your own bubble counter and other accessories for customized construction.