CO2 regulator recommendation

[RockyProndoa]

Hello everyone,

I am setting up a 235g planted tank, and while I have CO2 on my other tanks and do have extra room on the regulator(s) available to run a line to this new tank, the distance is about 25 feet and I am considering just getting a standalone system (also considering the size I'm assuming I'll use a considerable amount of C02). It's been a very long time since I have had to purchase a regulator (mine are all custom/DIY welding regulators made by a member on another forum), so I am looking for suggestions on what brand/model of pre-made/prefab units are the gold standard now?

For a bit more clarity, the solenoid will be controlled via Apex controller and a pH probe, and the CO2 will be injected via a stainless steel yugang reactor and I will be using a 10g CO2 tank.

I appreciate any input!

 

[Koan]

Our own @Bettatail is your go-to if you want to build your own

B

Thread 'Victor SGT500 stainless steel double stage CO2 regulator DIY, quick guide.'

Sep 24, 2025

This is a quick guide for anyone wants to DIY a set of double stage co2 system.
The main components for this co2 system:
Rebranded ASA(victor SGT500) stainless steel double stage regulator, 40 psi max output
Peter Paul E52 series stainless steel solenoid, 4 watts
Swagelok M series metering valve, angle pattern with vernier handle.

DIY parts list:
1. CGA320 nipple and nut set(with washer), 1.5 inch nipple/stem, stainless steel.
2. Victor SGT500 stainless steel bar stock double stage regulator, 1/4 female npt...

• Bettatail

• 
• 

or for a gorgeous, custom built bulletproof buy-it-for life regulator

bettatail2000 on eBay

Follow bettatail2000 on eBay. Buying, Selling, Collecting on eBay has never been more exciting!

ebay.us

If you tailor the setup on your Yugang correctly, it will offset any weaknesses in a regulator or needle valve

Article 'Yugang CO2 Reactor - A Guide'

Contents: Benefits of Yugang reactor Calculate the reactor dimensions Overflow mode, regulator mode, pH/CO2 controller Overflow mode, step by step instruction Regulator mode, pH/CO2 controller mode, step by...

• Yugang
• Sep 15, 2025
• 20 min read
• Reaction score: 11
• Comments: 11
• Category: CO2 in the Planted Aquarium

That being said, check out GLA for rock solid off the shelf regulators, needle valve and warranty support

 

[JayP]

Our own @Bettatail is your go-to if you want to build your own

B

Thread 'Victor SGT500 stainless steel double stage CO2 regulator DIY, quick guide.'

Sep 24, 2025

This is a quick guide for anyone wants to DIY a set of double stage co2 system.
The main components for this co2 system:
Rebranded ASA(victor SGT500) stainless steel double stage regulator, 40 psi max output
Peter Paul E52 series stainless steel solenoid, 4 watts
Swagelok M series metering valve, angle pattern with vernier handle.

DIY parts list:
1. CGA320 nipple and nut set(with washer), 1.5 inch nipple/stem, stainless steel.
2. Victor SGT500 stainless steel bar stock double stage regulator, 1/4 female npt...

• Bettatail

• 
• 

or for a gorgeous, custom built bulletproof buy-it-for life regulator

bettatail2000 on eBay

Follow bettatail2000 on eBay. Buying, Selling, Collecting on eBay has never been more exciting!

ebay.us

If you tailor the setup on your Yugang correctly, it will offset any weaknesses in a regulator or needle valve

Article 'Yugang CO2 Reactor - A Guide'

Contents: Benefits of Yugang reactor Calculate the reactor dimensions Overflow mode, regulator mode, pH/CO2 controller Overflow mode, step by step instruction Regulator mode, pH/CO2 controller mode, step by...

• Yugang
• Sep 15, 2025
• 20 min read
• Reaction score: 11
• Comments: 11
• Category: CO2 in the Planted Aquarium

That being said, check out GLA for rock solid off the shelf regulators, needle valve and warranty support

 

[RockyProndoa]

Our own @Bettatail is your go-to if you want to build your own

Oh wow - that's him. He's built all of my other regulators. It's been years but I definitely remember the name!

Thank you so much for this info!

 

[RockyProndoa]

Also, just as a piggyback question - what's everyone's opinion on just using a second open manifold on one of my current regulators? I'm not sure if the distance from the tank to the regulator (around 25 LF) would affect the performance/pressure/etc.?

 

[Koan]

I have a GLA 4-gang running across my fish room, the longest run is probably 20 ft Works a treat, the needle valves control the pressure

Both @Bettatail and @Alanle are famous for building pretty sexy multiple manifolds

Resource Thread 'Alan Le’s regulator builds'

Jun 26, 2023

Hey guys! I few people have asked me to post my regulator builds. These are custom dual stage co2 regulators that I built.

• Alanle
• Replies: 11
• Forum: Equipment Discussions

• 
• 

 

[JacksonL]

Those needle valves make me extraordinarily jealous!