Reddit reviews BN-LINK 24 Hour Plug-in Mechanical Timer Grounded Aquarium, Grow Light, Hydroponics, Pets, Home, Kitchen, Office, Appliances, UL Listed 125VAC, 60 Hz, 1875W, 15A, 1/2HP (1)

Hey guys,

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I saw this awesome video by Derek Gilman about an automated curing system he had built: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Jho0qeTUZnA

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His rig is with 5 gallon gamma lid buckets, and he loads about 2 pounds in each one. The way the system works is you put your dried bud in the buckets, and you hook up an air pump to the buckets, on a timer. The timer I have set is for 15 mins every 24 hours. (The timer kicks on the pump, pushing air through the buckets, and auto shuts off after 15 mins). You install little valve outlets on the container and they exhaust out the old the air when the pump comes on, and then seal back up when it shuts off.

Being a micro grower who grows autos that yield ~100g, at about 179 grams a gallon I would be nowhere close to filling a 5 gallon gamma lid bucket, and even at 2 gallons I'm still a bit short.

So, I went to the store and found 1 gallon airtight food containers and it works! I was able to fit a Seedsman Zkittlez Auto I just got finished drying/trimming and ready for cure.

The system I built is:

- Aquarium Air pump, ideally with a built in manifold so you can hook up multiple containers: (NON AFFILIATE LINKS!) https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B008ILGHAU/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

- Air line https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000255NYQ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

- Check Valves: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07FKJXZ78/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1

- 3/16" Drill bit

- 1 Gallon airtight food storage container https://www.walmart.com/ip/Better-Homes-Gardens-Flip-Tite-Square-Food-Container-16-Cups/370961661

- Timer with 15 min increments: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00MVFF59S/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s01?ie=UTF8&psc=1

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I noticed that the pressure was a little too high when I had only one check valve as the outlet and it was causing the lid to pop up, so I added two more. If you are growing photos, you're most likely yielding more than I do with my auto plants, so you'd prolly be able to just use the 2 gallon gamma buckets, which should hold about 1/2-3/4 pound. https://www.amazon.com/Gallon-Black-Bucket-Screw-threaded/dp/B018BFY2KY/ref=sr_1_5?keywords=2+gallon+gamma&qid=1574473805&sr=8-5

For anyone interested
My lights: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01HBT3BVM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_CdHKDbPDRD0JF

My shelf: https://www.homedepot.com/p/HDX-48-in-W-x-72-in-H-x-18-in-D-Decorative-Wire-Chrome-Heavy-Duty-Shelving-Unit-HD18481302PS-1/203846551?MERCH=REC-_-rv_mobileweb_rr-_-NA-_-203846551-_-N

I also needed an outlet timer since the lights don't have one https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00MVFF59S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_FmHKDbGVVCMWT

I was in your shoes not too long ago, it's overwhelming! Here's a list of things that I bought, but I am not an expert so if others have better input go for that:

Equipment

• 10 gallon tank with hood
  
• Broad Spectrum Light The one that came with the hood did not provide enough for the plants, you definitely need to invest in a broad spectrum bulb.
  
• CaribSea Flora Max Substrate I learned that shrimp prefer darker color substrate, this was worth the investment! My shrimp were so unhappy with cheap gravel, after switching to this substrate they are very active.
  
• Air pump
  
• Sponge filter
  
• Heater, maybe optional for you?
  
• Thermometer
  
• Gallon Bucket
  
• Siphon
  
• Seachem Prime Because it's a smaller tank, I ended up poking a pinhole sized hole in the seal so that I could use it as drops rather than pouring it in.
  
• [Seachem Stability] (https://www.amazon.com/Seachem-67101230-Stability-500ml/dp/B0002APIIW/ref=sr_1_1?s=pet-supplies&ie=UTF8&qid=1499786377&sr=1-1&keywords=seachem+stability) Use this while you're cycling your tank, follow the instructions.
  
• API Test Kit
  
• Feeding Tray For the longest time I was really confused as to how the feeding tray worked, you can either get a tube or pre-soak the pellets and then drop them into the tray using long tweezers. This will help prevent ammonia/nitrite spikes.
  
• Long Tweezer Set
  
• Pellets Do also feed them blanched vegetables, make sure to peel the skin and buy organic to avoid chemicals/pesticides
  
• Timer Outlet Worth the investment! So you don't have to keep remembering to turn the light on and off.
  
  Shop for whatever is cheaper, I have a huge heater because I had an extra one from before. I've read that it's not necessary but also have read that if you want them to breed you need to stimulate warm water. For now, I keep the heater off and leave it at room temperature of 72F. They seem very happy! Most important in my opinion, add plenty of plants and a marimo ball or 2.
  
  Lastly, I'm unsure of the siphon, I think it's good to have a bucket and siphon just in case your water parameters are looking bad so you are prepared to do a water change. From what I read, shrimp have a very low bio load and should be able to sustain themselves. Make sure to do tests regularly.
  
  EDIT I just read that this is your first aquarium, so here is a detailed write up:
  
  Setting up your tank
  
  
• 1. Find a stable top to place your aquarium on, keep in mind a well sunlit room will mean more plant/algae growth. Make sure it's sturdy and made for heavy objects, don't want to place it on a flimsy shelf or it might break! I keep mine on top a waterproof place mat because water drips are going to happen.
     
• 2. Rinse everything as a precaution! NEVER use dish soap!! If you must sanitize, vinegar is okay. Just make sure to rinse thoroughly. Also, NEVER use any kind of soap on your hands before handling things, just rinse well with water. Add your substrate, I lightly rinsed mine as there are beneficial bacteria living inside the substrate, pour it in. Make sure it's at least 2" of floor. Your water will be cloudy if you bought the substrate I listed, don't worry as it will settle after an hour and be clear.
     
• 3. Fill water half way, use a small plate and pour the water on top of that to avoid the substrate being pushed around. NEVER use hot water! If you're using tap water be sure to always use cold water. It's also recommended to purchase "RO water" (Reverse Osmosis Water) as some times your tap water can be too "hard". The best thing to do is use the test kit on tap water and go from there. If the kH/gH are very high 100+ you will need to use RO water. I like to place my plants and decor now while the tank is half full. Place in your thermometer, heater, sponge filter, etc. After that, continue to fill all the way to the top remembering to aim the stream on top the plate. Leave about a half to an inch from the top.
     
• 4. Take out plate, plug in filter, add in Seachem Prime and Seachem Stability. Please read the label for instructions and dosage according to your tank size. Since there is nothing inside you can add it after you've added the water to the tank. Moving forward, be sure to add the chemicals in the water bucket BEFORE pouring into the tank.
     
• 5. Turn on filter, wait for the water to settle and temperature to come up. They say shrimp can tolerate 52F to 86F but ideally room temperature water is best, this is where your water heater will come into play. Follow which ever cycling method you choose before purchasing your shrimp. This can take up to 6 weeks.
     
     After your tank has cycled
     
     
• 1. When adding your shrimp, there are many methods, the way I acclimate my shrimp is:
     
• 2. Put the shrimp in a 1 gallon tub using the water that they came in.
     
• 3. Drop in a tablespoon of the tank water, ONCE every 2 minutes.
     
• 4. After the water has reached 1/3 old water, 2/3rd new water, your shrimp are ready to be placed into your tank.
     
     Please don't skip the important step of acclimating your shrimp! They are very sensitive to water changes and this ensures that they will survive.
     
     Here are my water parameters, people have all kinds of ranges but this is what works for me:
     
     
• kH: 60 / gH: 40 / pH: 7.0 / NO2: 0 / NO3: 20 / Ammonia: 0 / Temperature: 72F
  
  I hope this helps... again, I was in your shoes not too long ago, it was really overwhelming. But after a lot of research I think my tank is in a good place :). Other users, if there's anything in my list that seems incorrect please let me know!

Sure:

• 4 Buckets from Lowe's
  
• Morsen 216W (55W) Grow light
  
• LED 5050 Strip w/ Power Supply
  
• Timer
  
• Carbon air filter
  
• 4" Inline Fan
  
  
• 4" Ducting
  
• Mylar blankets
  
• A roll of foil tape, roll of black duct tape, and a small bottle of tacky glue from Lowe's
  
• 1 1/4" wood screws from Lowe's
  
• An 80mm PC fan I had from before
  

Here is my current (year-round) setup! I moved into a new apartment with only north and west facing windows, and nothing was getting enough light. So recently I upgraded my setup.

• [Shelf] (https://www.amazon.com/AmazonBasics-3-Shelf-Shelving-Unit-Chrome/dp/B01M0XLTT5)
  
  
• Lights
  
  
• Timer
  
  I have the lights on for about 12 hours a day.
  
  I used to have a clamp lamp with CFL, and that worked for a bit, but I was trying to squeeze too many plants under it so they started to get etiolated. In comparison, these lights are amazing. You can see that some of the plants were etiolated but are now growing compactly!

If you’re sure 15 minute cycles are good, then mechanical timers work great and are super easy to program. I’ve used these in the past:

Century 24 Hour Plug-in Mechanical Timer Grounded https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00MVFF59S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_cqeYzb0HS34MQ

However, except price, digital timers are pretty much better in every way. I once had an issue where 15 minutes was too long for an ebb and flow I built. Pump was too strong, overflow didn’t drain fast enough. I switched to digital to do a shorter interval and the problem was mostly fixed. Not exactly a common scenario, but for a couple bucks extra, the convenience of digital can certainly be worth it.

https://www.amazon.com/Electric-Solenoid-110-VAC-Normally-Closed/dp/B007N0J98E/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1499072073&sr=8-1&keywords=water+solenoid+110v

https://www.amazon.com/Century-Plug-Mechanical-Timer-Grounded/dp/B00MVFF59S/ref=sr_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1499072056&sr=8-6&keywords=timer

+some hoses / tubes / enclosure for your electronics and a few hours of your time.

you should be able to construct a nice system for 50-100 dollar

Two things:

One. That light is made for a refugium. A lot of people will say that it's "harsh" or "cold" - that's because it's not really made for humans to look at - it's not a "display light". It'll work just fine for growing plants (it'll work really well, actually), but it will lack a lot of the "warmer" colors that look good to human eyes. Finnex makes a few others that are comparable: Plantet+ 24/7 (adjustable colors/remote/timer), Ray (bright white light), Ray 2 (very powerful white light).

Ultimately the light you choose will depend on a few factors. What kinds of plants will you grow? How deep is the aquarium (more powerful lights are needed for deeper water columns)? Do you mind if the light is "harsh"?

Of those considerations, I'd put the most weight on the tank dimensions and the plant specifications. Trying to push light through 24 inches of water for a carpeting plant? You'll want a Ray 2. Have an 8-inch deep tank that you want to grow some swords in? Don't waste your money on anything fancy.

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Two. That CO2 kit is a money pit and here's why:

• The regulator is crap and you'll have a VERY hard time dialing it into 2-3 bubbles/second. I know this from experience.
  
• CO2 is most useful when it's on a schedule (in sync with your lights). To do that you need a solenoid regulator that can be turned on/off using an outlet timer. This regulator does not have that.
  
• That also means that every time you turn this on/off, you'll have to dial in your bubble count AGAIN.
  
• Those cartridges are tiny. 20g of CO2 will last you a good two weeks if you're lucky (probably closer to 1 week). The refills are 3-5 bucks each if you go with the Fluval ones. Finding off-brand cartridges is near impossible because of the threadding. They lock you into buying their refill products.
  
  So let's say you spend 25 bucks on the kit plus 15 bucks for some cartridges. That's an upfront of 40 dollars with a 15 dollars per month in perpetuity. That means that one year of this kit will cost you $220.
  
  Instead you could go for this paintball setup for the same price:
  
  
• Regulator - $110
  
• Atomizer - $20
  
• Paintball tank - $21 (probably another $10 to have it filled)
  
• CO2 proof tubing
  
• Check valve - $7
  
• Drop checker kit - $14
  
• Outlet timer - $10
  
• Bubble counter - $13
  
  That build adds up to $205, will be WAY less work in the long run, much more stable, and simply easier to run. Also if you ever get sick of it and want your money back - it'll retain a lot of it's value. You could probably re-sell that whole set for 170-ish used. Also, that tank will last you a good few months before needing to be refilled.
  
  CO2 can really help your tank flourish, but it takes a considerable buy-in. Go all the way or go home. Half-assing it to save money on sub-par equipment will just cause you headaches and a lot more money in the long run. I spent about 250 on my setup two years ago and haven't had to spend a PENNY on it since.
  
  ----
  
  PS: /u/Elhazar, are you really gonna go around using the little 2 in "CO₂" and pretend like it's nothing? Well aren't you fancy!

Most recipes will probably be fine with an additional 2-4 hours. Crock pot recipes aren't very fussy. But that counts more for beef than chicken, because chicken dries out easier. A couple tips:

For chicken, use thighs instead of breasts. The thighs have more fat and will keep from drying out longer. And yes, chicken can still overcook and become dry while in a sauce. It's just less noticeable.

Beef will probably work great it's a bit more forgiving than chicken.

One other solution many people here do is to buy a timer you plug your crock pot into like this. That way, you can program it to turn on 4 hours after you leave. And especially if you're using frozen dump recipes this is a great solution.

Or I'm sure there's programmable crock pots you can buy to skip the plug timer.

If you have amazon, order one of the timers like this one. I have one for my tank, and it's great! The lighting stays consistent and is one less thing to think about. I regularly am gone on the weekends without feeding, and my fish are all plenty fed. If you're worried, just feed them a bit more than usual on the last day you're there. I would definitely drop a sheet over the tank to keep the dust out.

This is the light I got:

Roleadro Upgrade and Newly Developed LED Grow Light Full Spectrum 2nd Generation Series 300w Plants Light https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01HI3AFYM/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_TtlOzbXWSYYMW


I also just picked up a cheap $9 timer on amazon. Works like a champ. I keep mine on from 9:30am to 9:30pm

Edit: here is the timer

Century 24 Hour Plug-in Mechanical Timer Grounded https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00MVFF59S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_AvlOzbW25N6CN

I have this 4 foot T5 with a stand, this shelf on top of a side table, this 2 foot T5 hooked to the bottom shelf with paper clips and key rings (lol), daisy-chained to this other 2 foot T5 hooked to the top shelf the same way. They are all run on two of these timers which are on ~10 hrs/day.

I have two of these plant racks from Lowe's in front of my south and east facing windows, I jimmied out the bottom shelf and sort of rested it on my windowsill and the edge of the stand (lol again). It's all very MacGuyvered.

a cheap hps kit is a good start. Can grow plants through all stages. Just need a decent sized space like 6' tall, 4 x 4

want to spend more / better quality? get a cmh kit.

want to diy? build a LED COB kit

looking for more shelf compatible that are good for seedlings? get LED shoplights at your local lowes / depot

yeah you will want a timer. they are cheap / normal timers u see for like christmas lights

I don't have super helpful advice as I don't have the space for a large collection. I use my lights year around, tho I truck my plants outside as much as possible during the summer.

I have these bulbs.

And I just pop one into a desk lamp, which is plugged into this automatic timer.

The timer does have a slight learning curve to it, but it's so nice to have something that does all the work of turning my light off and on.

The bulbs are great and cheap. I usually rotate my plants closer and further away every other day or so. I find if I leave them directly under it (about 5-6 inches away) for too many days, they will skip right thru pretty stress to ugly stress. In the dark depths of winter, I might pull out my red and blue light gooseneck as a supplement to make me feel better, but I really don't think I'll need it, and that usually has to be within 2-3 inches tops to be any good.

A cheap mechanical timer can be configured for an endless 15 min on/45 min off.

work smarter, not harder

I'd go low tech with this.

Get a plug in appliance control module. Something like this (but whichever one will work with your system; if you have no smart hub get a mechanical timer like this one).

Wire the 24vac transformer that feeds your doorbell in through it.

Result- doorbell does nothing for the hours you specify, for under $50.

Alternatively, get a double pole relay and a small interval timer. During the day, pushing the doorbell rings the chime. During the night, pushing the doorbell opens an electronic valve that feeds a sprinkler head pointed at your front door for several seconds. If drunk college students are ringing your doorbell at night, they will quickly learn not to.

Amazon has one here for $10!

Edit:Formatting/changed link to a better quality, grounded timer.

As an example for a smallish grow:

2 x 2 x 4 Tent: https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B074H5DKPY/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s00

Lights: https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B0752CL6KJ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s00

Exhaust fan: https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B01C82SYZ0/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o05_s00

Ducting: https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B00EPE3XHY/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o05_s00

Timer: https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B00MVFF59S/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o00_s00

Total cost: ~270 CAD

I have the same ones, they get really hot so be sure to keep the heads far from the seedlings

Might even consider getting a mechanical timer. I got one recently and now I dont have to worry about turning them on in the morning and off at night.

• With EI dosing you want to just dose the water column. They will make their way around the tank. For good measure I pull some of the water out in a cup, dissolve the powders in that water and then just dump it back into the tank. I aim it right for the filter flow so it gets spread around the tank.
  
  
• Here is the timer I use ($8) Link. You can set as many on-off segments as you'd like. I don't use screens or tops on my tanks.
  
  
• Fish don't really give off Co2 at all. Especially to the level that your plants need.
  
  
• Flourish Excel will eliminate the black beard algae if used consistently. You can dose it directly onto the spots that have the algae using a syringe.
  
  
• Be careful when "super-cleaning" your substrate. You will release large pockets of decaying matter that can dramatically shift the water parameters and temporarily crash your cycle.
  
  
• I exclusive buy all my plants from Amazon. The fact that the sellers have a reputation to maintain means that if you receive any dead or less-than-desirable plants they will replace them free of charge. When you decide who to buy from, buy multiples from them as the shipping charge will only be charged once (nothing is available on Prime as Amazon isn't about to stock live aquatic plants in their warehouses). My favorites that I have had very good results using are listed below. Aquarium Plants Factory regularly offers buy 2 get 1 free deals which I would recommend. They are the ones who I bought my Repens from:
  
  
  • SubstrateSource (Also have a website at Substratesource.com)
    
    
  • Aquatic Plants Factory
    
    
  • Mainam Aquatic Plant
    
    

Giantex Indoor Grow Tent Room Reflective Mylar Hydroponic Non Toxic Clone Hut 6 Size (32''X32''X63'') https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00PXK7ICK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_UhVuybY2C4CHS

Roleadro 2nd Generation 600W LED Plant Grow Light Upgraded Full Spectrum Indoor Growing Light with 120pcs 5W Chips https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01IVQ96MW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_diVuybHJCV7XV

VIVOSUN 4 Inch 203 CFM Duct Inline Fan with Variable Speed Controller https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01CTM0H6I/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_BiVuybSGHVZTE

Century 24 Hour Heavy Duty Plug-in Mechanical Timer Grounded https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00MVFF59S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_nkVuybNGBW6PS

MacDoDo PH-02 Digital PH Meter Tester Best For Water Aquarium Pool Hot Tub Hydroponics Wine - Push Button Calibration Resolution 0.01 / High Accuracy +/- 0.05 - Large LCD Display - 100% Guaranteed https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01JOHTMEO/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_MkVuybZ08V91M

VIVOSUN Pair of 1/8" Adjustable Grow Light Reflector Clip Hanger Rope Ratchet with Zinc Alloy Internal Gears 75lb Each https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00P7TZNPQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_nlVuyb1Q8670K

This is my setup, my fan is coming in today and my seedlings sprouted this morning. I did quite a bit of research and The light is a little underpowered but I was on a pretty tight budget and can always add more light later.
I spent $40 on seeds and super soil mix from Mephisto genetics, going a more organic route and won't require nutes.
I also spent about $30 on peat moss, perlite, and compost. I already had some ducting and pots.

Well, I'm skeptical of the smart home stuff for two main reasons. The biggest is because most of it seems like either more fragile and less reliable than the good ol' mechanical stuff. I know a light switch is going to turn on and off my lights. If it doesn't, odds are it's a problem with the light, not the switch. If I say "Hey, Lady in a Tube, turn off the lights," there's a much bigger chance of it not working in a way that I can't do anything about. A lot of other home automation stuff seems like it could be just as easily, and a lot more reliably, done with a simple, mechanical outlet timer. I want hot water in the morning, why buy a smart kettle or a smart plug that needs Wifi, when one of those timers will do the same thing, more reliably, even if my internet is down? Then there's the issue of so many of these smart home gadget companies getting bought out and bricking their devices. No fun.

The second concern I have is, of course, privacy. These things are collecting a lot of data, and I don't know how a lot of it is being used. I'd prefer to not have a hot microphone picking up what I say and sending it to a data center to be picked through for ads. Yes, I know the Echo doesn't send any audio unless it's been triggered first, but I don't know what all these other devices are sending out. Wasn't there a smart vacuum that was uploading maps of its users floorplans? Then there's the Vizio smart TVs that literally uploaded a framegrab of everything it displayed to Vizio every 30 seconds. I might be paranoid, but until the privacy stuff shakes out, I ain't gonna bother, even if I can find a use for it.

Erm... maybe attach a simple motor to a Wall timer?

If you don't know electronics, then you should accomplish this with as little electronics and as many off-the-shelf parts as possible.

I like the mechanical timers for their simplicity, they seem to last fairly long. I have owned a few of the digital timers and they can be a pain to program correctly. Even though the mechanical timers can't have multiple schedules it is nice to know they'll function just as intended.

Here's one I'm talking about - https://www.amazon.com/Century-Plug-Mechanical-Timer-Grounded/dp/B00MVFF59S/

1. Go to a homebrew store, buy a 5lb tank for $90 or so, it will cost $5 to refill in the future and might last you 6 months depending, likely less in a 55gal tho.
   
2. buy this: https://shop.glassaqua.com/products/uns-mini-co2-single-gauge-regulator
   
3. then this: https://shop.glassaqua.com/collections/co2/products/inline-co2-atomizer
   
4. then a timer like this: https://www.amazon.com/Century-Plug-Mechanical-Timer-Grounded/dp/B00MVFF59S?ref_=Oct_BSellerC_495340_0&pf_rd_p=1f7ed03e-6b56-52da-837f-50a4f94e13b7&pf_rd_s=merchandised-search-6&pf_rd_t=101&pf_rd_i=495340&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_r=DF50PCP11P6M4SRKZV11&pf_rd_r=DF50PCP11P6M4SRKZV11&pf_rd_p=1f7ed03e-6b56-52da-837f-50a4f94e13b7
   
5. but preferably this: https://www.amazon.com/Smart-Enabled-Google-Assistant-HomeKit/dp/B01NBI0A6R/ref=pd_bxgy_107_img_3/141-4234734-0750431?_encoding=UTF8&pd_rd_i=B01NBI0A6R&pd_rd_r=7997e8e9-6f56-11e9-8d62-07ed84270f12&pd_rd_w=TOZXS&pd_rd_wg=mtJni&pf_rd_p=a2006322-0bc0-4db9-a08e-d168c18ce6f0&pf_rd_r=8GW94BPKJ41S91G2319H&psc=1&refRID=8GW94BPKJ41S91G2319
   
6. Then this: http://greenleafaquariums.com/co2-bubble-counters/atomic-bubble-counter.html
   
7. Then this: https://shop.glassaqua.com/collections/co2/products/co2-pressure-proof-tubing
   
8. Then this and fill it with the juice it comes with, and hang it over the edge of the tank. You will turn on the gas then check it every couple hours and adjust that tiny knob until you get what you need, which means likely that it turns lime green/yellow midday but goes back to dark green at night, its a balancing act until you get it right. https://shop.glassaqua.com/collections/co2/products/glass-co2-drop-checker-set
   
   ​
   
   Setup (in case you want this extra guide):
   
   
9. Fill the bubble counter with water from the topside (not the side with the red check valve, which is the bottom)
   
10. Plug in the timer, then tubing, then bubble counter, then inline diffuser.
    
11. Turn the big valve knob all the way to the right (clockwise / closed)
    
12. Pull out the tiny valve (fine adjustment) on the regulator and turn it all the way clockwise (closed)
    
13. Turn the big valve knob to the left (counter clockwise) until the gauge reads .3 MPa
    
14. Then turn the tiny knob to the left (counter clockwise) until you get to about 4 bubbles per second, i would recommend at least that for a 55gal heavily planted
    
15. Set timer turn on 30m before the light, and turn off 30m before the lights go out.
    
    ​
    
    It ain't cheap and won't likely solve all your algae issues (i have all manner of thread algae currently but it comes and goes) but it makes all the difference in overall plant health and growth, you will be trimming weekly if all goes well.
    
    Success, now just wait until the plants get wildly healthy in a week.

Oh, that's nice! You can load the washer in the morning, set it to start running at an hour before you usually get home, and then move it to the dryer right away.

​

I wonder if one of those[ outlet timers](https://www.amazon.com/Century-Plug-Mechanical-Timer-Grounded/dp/B00MVFF59S) would work for that? You'd need a grounded one that accommodates the three prongs (the one I linked does).

I would so it on low for 6 hours. If your crockpot doesn't have a timer and you want to start it before work, I suggest getting one that the plug goes into. 8 hours is a long time for veg.

They make digital ones, but you have to reprogram them Everytime you plug it in. Here is a link to a mechanical one. https://www.amazon.com/Century-Plug-Mechanical-Timer-Grounded/dp/B00MVFF59S/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1536151828&sr=8-4&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=plug+timer&dpPl=1&dpID=41hWDwaWyhL&ref=plSrch

Couldn't you use a normal time-dependent timer between the inkbird and your kegerator? That way your kegerator will only kick on during the times you tell it to.

Edit: Not that easy. Power needs to be supplied 24/7.

Double Edit: They make ones with a battery back up.

I've been taking ice baths for a bit now using plastic water bottles as reuseable ice cubes while filling the tub daily. I have a nice jacuzzi tub available most of the time that is great, but lugging the ice bottles around (my tub is on the 2nd floor, and my freezer is on the 1st floor) and having to re-freeze them every day can be a PITA - as well as having to use new water each day instead of the ability to recycle. My next solution is a chest freezer, which I intend to set up as soon as I am able.

A few tips from my research:

1. Get one big/wide enough for you to fit in comfortably up to and including your shoulders. Checking craiglist for your area is a good starting point for a discounted price. Depending on your size, 10-15 cu ft is a good range to consider.
   
2. Some have a handy shelf inside that can act as a bench; if yours does, you may desire a foam seat pad to put on top to make it slightly softer.
   
3. You can put it on a wall timer (that cycles on/off), then have it run for ~2-4 hours/day to keep the rough temp you desire, or a more accurate option is to get a Outlet Temp Controller (which is my choice method) that will auto on/off for you based on an exact preset water temperature. I enjnoy the idea of setting the tub to a custom temp, based on the length of time I intend to use it as well as the ability to increase cold levels of time.
   
4. When you first fill it with water and want to cool it, either cycle it on/off over multiple days or put a BUNCH of ice in with it - as cooling a lot of water isn't the intended purpose and this will mitigate the strain on the motor cooling system.
   
5. Seal up the inside seams with some silicone sealant (like stuff used for a bath tub), or line the inside with a pool liner for a thicker, reinforced watertight space.
   
6. The cool temp will naturally keep the water cleaner, though using H2O2 is a good way to elongate the life of the water even more. You can get ~5% at most pharmacies, or ~30% at farm supply stores that requires much less.

awesome, thank you! would a timer like this work? https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00MVFF59S/ref=sspa_dk_detail_0?psc=1&pd_rd_i=B00MVFF59S&pd_rd_wg=KBcJh&pd_rd_r=0JGTM74FGMQ0YW91K08Q&pd_rd_w=5pAEd

i use those basic ass dial timers , i think you can get one for like 10 $ mine has tabs you push in / pull out and can be set for either on/off every 15 mins. .

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00MVFF59S?psc=1

You're better off buying a light timer like this or just having the light on 24/7

I use two of these in the bottom drawer. A little spendy for a 140mm fan but I liked them plugging in via usb. I also have them on this timer. 30 min on and 30 min off.

Single Outlet: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B00MVFF59S/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1474504537&sr=8-4&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=mechanical+timer&dpPl=1&dpID=41Oz-5to%2BcL&ref=plSrch

Dual Outlet: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0042I5FF6/ref=mp_s_a_1_6?ie=UTF8&qid=1474504578&sr=8-6&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_QL65&keywords=analog+electrical+timer&dpPl=1&dpID=41Cp%2BK2xtLL&ref=plSrch

Programmatically turn it on/off only, or also be able to toggle it freely remotely? If you only need it to turn on/off at certain times, $8.99

Ok, here is my build list minus a couple things that I bought locally.

Century 24 Hour Plug-in Mechanical Timer Grounded https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00MVFF59S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_e3IZi2JQyzkoT

ON Smart Solution Household Power Strip-4 Multi Outlets with 4 USB Ports-15.5W Universal (100V~240V) Charging Station-600J Surge Protector Power Bar-6 https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01EWSU32U/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_ZxNnKD3WD1MXo

Roleadro UFO 138W LED Grow Light for Home Grower https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00RWYCRB2/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_gk82nAf13MTzV

AC Infinity MULTIFAN S5, Quiet Dual 80mm USB Fan for Receiver DVR Playstation Xbox Computer Cabinet Cooling https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IJ2J2K0/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apip_SCXe7KPU8uBsq

Plus a roll of black duct tape, roll of reflective ducting tape, and a 3 gallon smart pot

Edit: Oh yeah, and 4 Ace Hardware 5 gallon buckets

If I were you I'd time how long it takes for your board to reach 85-90% and then get something like this so that it just cuts of the power.

I have the 20-27" NICREW light for my 10 gallon low-tech planted tank and it seems to work well in keeping my plants alive (mostly anubias, amazon swords, and mosses) even though the lighting is on the low side. You MIGHT be able to grow medium light plants with this, but high light plants are a no-no (believe me I tried). Because you have a 20 gallon, go for the 28-36" one. Everything else seems good. Also, you might want to buy an automated timer like this one for your lights https://www.amazon.com/Century-Plug-Mechanical-Timer-Grounded/dp/B00MVFF59S/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1504061029&sr=8-4&keywords=timer+light. It can be quite tedious trying to turn off and on the lights for your plants each day. Remember plants need around 8 to 12 hours of light per day.

The rock wall looks cool! You can definitely try it out if you have the time. Also try to add some plants first when you cycle, as plants can help speed up the cycling process!

Good luck on your tank :)

this is the one that I have and use on my bedside lamp https://www.amazon.com/Century-Plug-Mechanical-Timer-Grounded/dp/B00MVFF59S/ref=sr_1_4?ie=UTF8&qid=1505316483&sr=8-4&keywords=outlet+timer

but the dimming featured alarm clock sounds heavenly

Here is a link to a random one https://www.amazon.com/NatureBright-SunTouch-Light-Therapy-package/dp/B000W8Y7FY.

Then they have those things to plug into outlets to make the thing plugged in operate on a timer. Here is an example

https://www.amazon.com/Century-Plug-Mechanical-Timer-Grounded/dp/B00MVFF59S/ref=zg_bs_495340_1?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=35SVFS2GRDGP54NJ5VBV


I saw someone suggested a sunlight alarm clock. If you end up getting one, I’d love to know how you like it. I’ve been thinking about getting one.

Thanks for the suggestion!
I actually went ahead and already ordered this guy since it was highly reviewed, so hopefully it all works out.

I use this one to make my mister cycle on and off Century 24 Hour Plug-in Mechanical Timer Grounded https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00MVFF59S/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_uLUIBbTTSZY0R . It's a little loud but it works great.

At the moment it is nothing simple, I have a ViparSpectra 450w w/ bloom switch hooked up to a Century Timer. I just went and bought a small circular fan maybe 6 inches in diameter at Wal-Mart and tied it up in the tent to the top vent as an exhaust. It's in a tiny 2x2x4 Tent. I have a couple clones from my outdoor grow, 2 in pot rn and a few more in a dome, all in the same tent. Not obviously going to keep them all, just hoping the pick the best of the litter.

http://i.imgur.com/kujrMR6.jpg
2.5 gallon

Fauna: 4x White Cloud Minnow

Flora: Hemianthus Callitrichoides
Cryptocoryne Parva
Marimo Moss
Unknown plant in the back. Trying to find something to fill in the back.

Driftwood: Manzanita

Equipment: Beamswork 12" LED
Deep Blue Biomaxx Nano Filter
Rhinox Glass Drop Checker
Rhinox 1000 Glass Diffuser
Empire Paintball 24oz. CO2 tank
AquaTek Mini CO2 Regulator
AquaTek CO2 Tubing
DIY Teabag + Activated Carbon filter
Plug Timer

Dosing: 0.5 mL/day Flourish Excel
0.5mL/week Flourish Comprehensive
CO2: 8 hours, Light: 8 hours, offset 30 minutes.

I actually ordered everything individually from Amazon. I’m sure you could probably find everything locally as well but it was easier for a newbie like me to get it all from the same place.

Aluminum CO2 Paintball Tank https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0008G2WAW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_J3vBDbY97P8E0 - $22 ( + $5 to fill with CO2)

Aquarium CO2 Regulator with... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07F7P8TL3?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share - $53

AQUATEK CO2 Paintball Tank CGA... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B004M49QDC?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share - $12

aFe Power Magnum FORCE 54-11473... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N36MAO4?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share - $18

AQUATEK CO2-Proof Tubing 16 Feet https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008UCOFJW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_z6vBDbMW07193 - $8

Century 24 Hour Plug-in... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00MVFF59S?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share - $9

Aquarium Carbon Dioxide CO2... https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01C9DGXV0?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share - $11

Total: $148

Again, total newbie and this is the bare minimum of quality and price I was comfortable with. I plan on upgrading to a bigger tank and a better regulator in a few months. Do your own research too.

For the lights it would probably be easiest find what ever grow lights you want to use to just set them up on a outlet timer like this one

https://www.amazon.com/Century-Plug-Mechanical-Timer-Grounded/dp/B00MVFF59S/ref=mp_s_a_1_4?adgrpid=55860705757&gclid=CjwKCAjwtuLrBRAlEiwAPVcZBmbjqf5NMtXcK6wtTGQi-LS2tSpwNdxYOnQOmdT7AUxw4-DgfW80FBoCyBMQAvD_BwE&hvadid=274681788615&hvdev=m&hvlocphy=9009439&hvnetw=g&hvpos=1t1&hvqmt=e&hvrand=14082713225212498484&hvtargid=kwd-297934576950&hydadcr=14000_9485761&keywords=light+timer&qid=1568239025&s=gateway&sr=8-4

The watering system is harder to do.

How big are the plants?

Do you have an idea of how the plants will be arranged?

Are there any other physical limitations like space or if it has to be mobile?

What is the water source like? A bucket? A garden hose?


Also how much experience do you have doing anything DIY?

https://www.amazon.com/Century-Plug-Mechanical-Timer-Grounded/dp/B00MVFF59S/ref=sr_1_5?keywords=20+amp+receptacle+timer&qid=1563062728&s=gateway&sr=8-5

look for something with a 15-20 amp capacity and you will be fine.

​

does the ac start up if you leave it running, unplug it, then plug it back in? if a timer will not work for anything but to shut it off in the middle of the night.

​

whats wrong with running it all night to be comfortable?