7 Best CO2 Regulators for Grow Tents and Grow Rooms

A CO2 regulator is a device that controls the rate of carbon dioxide that flows from a gas tank. It ensures a steady and manageable stream of CO2 is released.

A CO2 regulator works by attaching to the valve of a CO2 tank. When the tank is open, the high-pressure gas travels into the regulator, which reduces the gas pressure to a usable level. This process is achieved using a diaphragm within the regulator that responds to downstream pressure and throttles the CO2 intake to maintain the desired output pressure.

CO2 regulators offer several benefits, such as controlled release, safety, and efficiency. They allow for the controlled release of CO2, ensuring your plants get the right amount of CO2 they need to photosynthesize effectively. CO2 regulators prevent the rapid release of CO2, which could be dangerous. They help to conserve CO2 by releasing only what’s needed, reducing waste, and saving costs.

When used in conjunction with a CO2 controller, a CO2 regulator can automate the amount of CO2 added to the grow space. The controller measures the CO2 level in the grow room, and if it falls below the desired level, it triggers the regulator to release more CO2 until the optimal level is reached.

When choosing a CO2 regulator, consider factors such as pressure rating, flow rate, compatibility, quality and durability, ease of use, and safety. These factors are crucial to keep the CO2 levels in your grow tents optimal and promote healthy vegetation. 

1. Grow Crew CO2 Regulator by Carbon Accelerator for C02 Tanks – Best performance

The Grow Crew CO2 regulator increases the yield of the plants by 15%-30% and supports healthy and optimal growth. However, you must keep its optimal CO2 level at 1000-1500 PPM. Use this CO2 regulator only when the lights are on. 

This CO2 regulator easily attaches to 20 and 50-lb CO2 tanks, so it’s a good option for a 5×5 ft grow tent. 

It comes with the necessary hardware, so attaching it to the tanks is fast, even for beginners. The hardware contains parts like a heavy-duty solenoid valve (120v), two plastic tank washers, a flow meter (0.5 – 15 SCF/hour), 15′ of CO2 dispensing tubing, etc., to make its use effortless for all indoor growers. 

Its installation is also quick. Grow Crew CO3 regulator screws the thread into the thread into your CO2 tank with one of the supplied white washers. 

This CO2 regulator cannot rust or corrode, thanks to the aluminum design.

We rated it at 4.5/5, mostly for its solid construction and ease of use.

Pros: Versatile for indoor growing, hydroponics, and brewing, built to last.

Cons: Prone to leakage, and the solenoid gets stuck. 

2. GROWDOTS CO2 Regulator Emitter System for Grow Room – Best design 

The Growdots CO2 regulator is a good choice for its solid construction. This CO2 regulator has thickened aluminum and steel to prevent leakage and better seal. It also has brass parts so as not to rust and corrode so soon. 

You get the correct readings on the Growdots CO2 regulator since the flow meter, precision regulator, and industrial solenoid valve are combined for precise CO2 levels. 

Due to its versatile system, you can use this CO2 regulator in various environments, such as indoor growing, hydroponics, greenhouses, or conservatories, to promote plant growth and increase yield. 

The Growdots CO2 regulator offers a simple design, which is crucial for beginners. This regulator has an easy-to-red vertical flow column design and an accurate digital display for optimal use. 

Its installation is quick since this CO2 regulator offers the installation hardware. Installing it with standard gas cylinders and 20- or 50-pound tanks is easy. 

We rated it at 4.5/5 thanks to its ease of use and plain system for newbies. Its price is affordable, which is good for beginners.

Pros: Easy to install and use, adjustable for standard tanks 

Cons: Package issues, as some parts might be lacking 

3. MANATEE CO2 Regulator – Best construction

 The Manatee CO2 regulator performs well as it provides 4000 PSI and releases between 0.5 and 15 cubic feet of gas per hour. 

This CO2 regulator works with a 110V outlet and a 10 feet long air hose, offering sufficient power for optimal readings and CO2 outcomes. 

Due to its high-quality brass, the Manatee CO2 regulator cannot be damaged so soon. The sturdy construction is also resistant to rust and corrosion, so it lasts for an extended period. 

This regulator is versatile and suitable for multiple settings, such as grow tents, indoor hydroponics, and greenhouses, to increase yields and support healthy and green vegetation. 

You can check the precision regulator readings and the flaw gauge for accurate readings. 

The valve is well-sealed to prevent leaking and damage to the plants and grow rooms. 

We rated the Manatee CO2 regulator at 4.5/5 because it has the installation hardware and precise reading system. 

Pros: It works quietly, has adjustable settings with the autopilot system, and is easy to use for beginners

Cons: The needle needs more adjustments, and it provides weak connections between the parts 

4. VIVOSUN Hydroponics CO2 Regulator – Best for budget

The Vivosun Hydroponics CO2 regulator is a durable product made of brass to endure pressure and work well without rust or corrosion. The solid construction lasts longer and cannot be damaged under pressure. 

This CO2 regulator provides a high-pressure gauge of 4000 PSI and a precision regulator to follow the optimal CO2 levels. Its system also contains a 0-15 SCFH flowmeter and an inlet connection CGA-320. So, the Vivosun increases yields up to 40%. 

As the Vivosun Hydroponics CO2 regulator includes a sealed valve, it prevents leakage and cannot harm your indoor plants. 

Due to its 5-meter free plastic dispensing tubing and the USA standard 3-prong plug that meets a 4.2 mm hose diameter, this CO2 regulator is easily installed. 

Due to its versatility, you can use this CO2 regulator in grow tents, hydroponics, and aquariums to read the CO2 levels. 

We rated it at 4.5/5, mostly due to its ease of use and versatile functions. However, the hardware doesn’t contain instructions on how to use it. 

Pros: Multiple functions for indoor environments, durable for a more extended use 

Cons: The pressure gauge needle goes off and requires the additional sealing system to keep it stable

5. FZONE Aquarium CO2 Regulator – Best safety standards

The FZone Aquarium CO2 regulator is special for its high-precision structure. Made especially for aquariums, the FZone construction uses a fine-tuned, easy system for CO2. Its functionality is one bubble in three seconds. 

This structure uses a 1.6-inch dual gauge, is easy to read, and gives precise readings of the cylinder’s inner working pressure. The cylinder is updated and made of aluminum, so it cannot burst or leak, providing maximum safety features. The same applies to the pressure knob and fine-tuning knob as they are also spraying treated. 

Its installation process includes the bubble tools and counter. Due to other hardware parts (gauges, cables, chargers), you can set it up quickly. 

Its check valve functions prevent water from back flowing to the bottle for optimal flow and leakage-free operations. 

You also get a one-year warranty, so customer support answers all your questions. 

The FZone aquarium CO2 regulator is rated 4.5/5 by our reviewers due to its extendable outlet and suction power. But it comes with a higher price, so it’s not affordable to all users.

Pros: Solid for optimal use, strong and stable to work under higher pressure, warranty for all issues 

Cons: Package issues as some parts might be broken  

6. GROW1 CO2 Grow Room Environment Regulator – Best flow meter control 

The Grow1 CO2 regulator is an excellent choice for its brass alloy body. Its construction is solid and reliable to prevent bursting, and it works well under pressure. 

Thanks to its easy-to-adjust flow meter (adjustable from 0.5 to 15 cubic feet per hour), solenoid valve, and pre-set regulator, the system allows you to adjust and maintain optimum CO2 levels for your indoor plants. 

The Grow1 CO2 regulator has a 6-feet long 120V power cord, 2 white washers, and 5 meters of 0.25-inch black tubing. Its hardware parts ensure smooth setup and are easily attached to the fan for even CO2 distribution through your grow room.  

The main disadvantage is that its plastic parts cannot hold the pressure well, so they burst and cause leakage. 

The Grow1 CO2 regulator is rated at 4/5 by our reviewers, with a higher price for the average quality. It’s not affordable to all growers, and since they must change plastic parts, this regulator requires more costs. 

Pros: Durable to last longer, high-quality brass structure to prevent pressure bursts 

Cons: Package issues and some parts come broken, lower quality for the given price 

7. AC Infinity CO2 Regulator – Best gas output 

The AC Infinity regulator provides hose tubing to attach to regular tanks and secure installation for grow tent applications. 

Its hardware has a pressure gauge of 0-4000 PSI, a 0.5-15 SFC per hour flow meter, and the inlet CGA – 320. The hardware fits regular 2050 lbs CO2 tanks for a quick setup.

The AC Infinity is forged with heavy-duty brass and uses a solenoid valve pipe to ensure proper flow and prevent gas leakage. It provides higher safety standards for plants and users. 

This product uses a carbon dioxide meter with pressure and gives precise readings of the CO2 levels inside the grow tent. It also measures the gas flow to ensure optimal standards and warn about bursts. 

Its versatile design makes the AC Infinity CO2 regulator ideal for various environmental settings, such as greenhouses, grow tents, and grow rooms. 

We rated it at 3.5/5 as the glow meter doesn’t function well; it stays at zero once you connect it to the tank and generator. The price is cheap, but replacement parts cause more costs.

Pros: Solid construction, easy to install and use 

Cons: Poor customer service and shipping issues

How to Choose the Best CO2 Regulator?

To choose the best CO2 regulator for your grow tent, consider material durability, compatibility factor, type of valve and gauge, display and sensor, grow tent size, warranty, and price. 

Material durability: Materials such as aluminum, steel, and brass increase the lifespan of the CO2 regulator. A durable material ensures the regulator withstands wear and tear, providing a reliable service.

Compatibility factor: Look for generators connecting with both CGA320 and DIN477 connections, as these are the most common in the industry. A regulator that is compatible with such types of tanks provides more flexibility.

Type of valve and gauge: A regulator with an industrial-grade solenoid valve and dual-gauge setup is recommended. A regulator with a solenoid valve allows automated control, and a dual-gauge setup lets you monitor both tank pressure and output pressure.

Display and sensor: An easy-to-read display and accurate sensor help you monitor and adjust CO2 levels effectively. A digital display with a high-quality NDIR (non-dispersive infrared) sensor is ideal. The display shows the current CO2 levels while the sensor detects changes. 

Grow tent size: The size of your grow tent will determine the amount of CO2 needed, hence affecting the type of regulator suitable for your needs. For small to medium-sized tents (up to 10 x 10 feet), a regulator with a flow rate of 0.5 to 15 SCFH (standard cubic feet per hour) suffice. 

Ease of Use: Consider how easy installing and adjusting the regulator is. Some come with clear gauges and easy-to-use adjustment knobs.

Safety Features: Regulators with built-in safety valves or shutoffs prevent accidents. Without these valves, the regulators can explode and cause injuries and fatal consequences. They can also cause severe health problems and gas intoxication, such as dizziness and drowsiness, nervous system damage, restlessness, difficulty in breathing, etc., as the Wisconsin Department of Health Services explains. 

Warranty and price: Search for CO2 regulators with at least a one-year warranty period to contact customer support if something goes wrong. Regarding pricing, always check the quality before the price. 

The prices of the CO2 regulators range from less than $50 to more than $100 or even more. Always check if the product requires frequent replacements or is of average quality. If you invest more money, such a product is not a good option. 

Why do you need a CO2 regulator for indoor growing?

You need a CO2 regulator for indoor growing as it promotes photosynthesis. By adding CO2 to grow tents, plants photosynthesize more rapidly, leading to faster growth and higher yields. Remember to add CO2 during the day, as plants don’t do photosynthesis at night. 

Higher levels of CO2 significantly increase plant yield. Elevated CO2 levels can boost plant growth by 20-100%, and the process is known as the carbon fertilization effect, as Columbia University explains. 

A CO2 regulator allows for precise control over the CO2 levels in your grow tent, ensuring optimal conditions for plant growth. The best CO2 rate is 1200 PPM, allowing plants to photosyr at the maximum rate. 

Increased CO2 for grow tent levels also make plants more resilient, enhancing their ability to withstand higher temperatures and light intensity. They use water more efficiently and become drought-resistant, according to the study “Carbon Dioxide Benefits the World: See for Yourself” by the CO2 Coalition of the USA Senate. 

While there are other ways to add CO2 to your grow area, such as using fermentation, decomposing organic matter, or CO2 bags, these methods often lack the precision and consistency of a CO2 regulator and tank setup.

Fermentation and decomposition are unpredictable and may not produce sufficient CO2. CO2 bags only release CO2 in a warm environment and can’t be controlled precisely.

Therefore, a CO2 regulator with a CO2 tank is often the best approach for serious indoor gardeners looking to maximize their yields. It allows for consistent, controllable delivery of CO2, ensuring your plants always have the right amount to thrive.

How to set up a CO2 regulator in a grow tent?

To set up a CO2 regulator in a grow tent, purchase the necessary equipment. You need a CO2 tank, a CO2 regulator, and a CO2 controller. The tank holds the CO2, the regulator controls the flow of CO2 from the tank, and the controller measures the CO2 levels in the tent and adjusts them as necessary.

Connect the CO2 regulator to the tank according to the manufacturer’s instructions. They usually involve screwing the regulator onto the tank valve. Make sure the connection is secure to prevent leaks.

Connect the regulator outlet to the CO2 controller. Such a connection allows the controller to control the flow of CO2 from the tank to the grow tent.

Place the dispenser (the end of the hose connected to the regulator) in a location that allows for an even distribution of CO2 throughout the tent. CO2 is heavier than air, so it should be dispensed above the plants to let it naturally sink and cover them.

Set your controller to maintain CO2 levels between 1200-1500 PPM for optimal plant growth. The controller then adjusts the flow of CO2 from the tank as necessary to maintain these levels.

Regularly check your CO2 for the grow tent system to ensure it’s working properly and maintaining the desired CO2 levels. Adjust the settings if necessary to keep the optimal CO2 levels and prevent plant damage and decay. 

How do you use a CO2 regulator in a room?

To use a CO2 regulator for the grow room, connect the regulator to the indoor CO2 grow controller, then connect the controller to a 120VAC wall socket that’s grounded. Given that the CO2 concentration in your grow room is likely to be less than 1,000 ppm, the regulator will activate immediately.