Should I use a DIY CO2 or pressurized CO2 system?
We have tested many types of DIY systems using yeast, citric acid, and other mixtures, and while they may be cheaper, they are not as stable as a pressurized CO2 system using a regulator and cylinder. The DIY reactions often make lots of CO2 at the beginning and then decline over time, and the inconsistent amounts of CO2 can make it difficult to balance a planted tank. Furthermore, the pressure is not as high, temperature can affect the reaction, and the overall process is time-consuming to maintain. With a pressurized system, we just set it up once and let it run for one to three years before having to refill the cylinder.
For more information on CO2 systems in high tech planted tanks, read the full article.