Using one CO2 bottles for several tanks

[Machete]

Hi,

I was wondering how I can use my CO2 bottle for several tanks. I am currently using a big refillable canister it for my 40 gallon, and have a smaller disposable cartridge system for my 5 gallon. Can I divide the tube coming out of the big one with one of those 2 way valves used for air compressors, or do I need an adaptor that would attach to the regulator itself?

Thanks!

[AdamTill]

Need a second needle valve too, they will want different bubble rates

[Seattle_Aquarist]

Hi @Machete

Hopefully your two tanks are reasonably close to each other.  Your second choice is correct.  You would need a 'splitter' or 'manifold' to split the CO2 after it goes through the regulator.  You would also need an additional needle valve for the second tank.  With my 20# CO2 tank use a 3-way manifold with built in needle valves to provide CO2 to my 45 gallon, 30 gallon, and 20 gallon.