GLA DS-Mini Dual Stage CO2 System (Modular)

GLA DS-Mini Dual Stage CO2 System (Modular)

The GLA DS-Mini Dual Stage CO2 System combines compact dual-stage pressure regulation, modular CO2 distribution, a refillable aluminum CO2 cylinder, and CO2-resistant tubing in one configurable planted aquarium CO2 package.

Designed for aquarists who want the pressure-regulation benefits of a dual-stage system without the larger footprint of the PRO-DS platform, the DS-Mini provides precise CO2 control in a compact, scalable configuration. Select from one to six independently controlled manifold outputs and one or two 5 lb aluminum CO2 cylinders to configure the system for your installation.

Each DS-Mini regulator is individually inspected, pressure tested, and leak checked in the USA prior to shipment.

At a Glance

• Pressure Regulation: Dual-stage
• Cylinder Connection: CGA-320 standard USA CO2 cylinders
• Included Cylinder: 5 lb aluminum CO2 cylinder; one- or two-cylinder package selectable at purchase
• Pressure Monitoring: Integrated working-pressure gauge
• Output Pressure Range: 0–60 PSI
• CO2 Distribution: Selectable 1–6 aquarium modular configuration
• Independent Control: Precision needle valve and bubble counter for each manifold output
• Automation: Integrated electric solenoid
• Tubing: 10 feet of CO2-resistant aquarium tubing
• Warranty: GLA Limited Lifetime Warranty on the regulator

Best For

• Aquarists seeking compact dual-stage CO2 regulation
• Single planted aquariums with future expansion in mind
• Multi-aquarium CO2 installations
• Installations where cabinet space and equipment footprint are important
• Hobbyists who want independently adjustable CO2 outputs
• Beginner and experienced aquarists seeking a scalable pressurized CO2 system
• Planted aquariums using diffusers, inline atomizers, or CO2 reactors

The DS-Mini is not limited to a particular aquarium size. Appropriate CO2 delivery depends on plant demand, lighting, circulation, diffusion method, surface agitation, and overall system configuration.

Why Choose the GLA DS-Mini CO2 System?

The DS-Mini CO2 System combines the compact footprint of the DS-Mini regulator with dual-stage pressure regulation, modular CO2 distribution, and the core components needed to establish a refillable pressurized CO2 installation.

• Compact Dual-Stage Architecture: Two-stage pressure regulation in a space-efficient platform
• Configurable Modular Manifold: Select from one to six independently controlled aquarium outputs
• Precision CO2 Adjustment: Each manifold output includes its own precision needle valve
• Integrated Flow Monitoring: Each manifold output includes a bubble counter for convenient visual CO2 monitoring
• Automatic Operation: Integrated solenoid allows CO2 injection to be controlled using a timer or compatible controller
• Working-Pressure Monitoring: Integrated gauge provides a clear reference for regulator output pressure
• System Protection: Integrated pressure relief valve provides an additional level of protection
• Refillable Cylinder: Includes one or two 5 lb aluminum CGA-320 CO2 cylinders depending on the selected package

Compact Dual-Stage Pressure Regulation

Dual-stage regulators reduce cylinder pressure through two separate pressure-reduction stages. This architecture is designed to provide increased working-pressure stability as cylinder pressure changes over time and to reduce the likelihood of pressure increases as the CO2 cylinder approaches depletion.

The DS-Mini provides these dual-stage pressure-regulation benefits in a compact form factor designed for planted aquarium installations where equipment space may be limited.

• Two-stage pressure reduction
• Stable and controllable working pressure
• Reduced likelihood of end-of-tank pressure spikes
• Compact architecture for space-conscious installations

Precision Control & Automation

Each DS-Mini manifold output includes an independently adjustable precision needle valve and integrated bubble counter, allowing CO2 flow to be tuned separately for each connected aquarium.

The integrated electric solenoid allows CO2 injection to be automatically coordinated with the aquarium photoperiod using a standard timer or compatible controller.

The DS-Mini uses a single gauge dedicated to regulator working pressure. Unlike the full-size PRO-DS platform, it does not include a separate cylinder-pressure gauge.

Bubble rate should be treated as an aquarium-specific reference rather than a universal measurement of dissolved CO2. Actual CO2 requirements vary with aquarium volume, plant mass, lighting, circulation, diffusion efficiency, and surface agitation.

Modular Manifold System

The DS-Mini CO2 System can be configured with one to six manifold blocks, allowing you to build the system around your current aquarium setup rather than purchasing more outputs than you need.

• DS-Mini-1: 1 independently controlled aquarium
• DS-Mini-2: 2 independently controlled aquariums
• DS-Mini-3: 3 independently controlled aquariums
• DS-Mini-4: 4 independently controlled aquariums
• DS-Mini-5: 5 independently controlled aquariums
• DS-Mini-6: 6 independently controlled aquariums

Each manifold block includes its own precision needle valve and integrated bubble counter, allowing every connected aquarium to be adjusted independently while sharing a single regulator and CO2 cylinder.

Compatible manifold blocks may also be added later if your system expands.

View GLA Modular Manifold Expansion Blocks

Refillable 5 lb Aluminum CO2 Cylinder

The DS-Mini CO2 System includes a refillable 5 lb aluminum CO2 cylinder with a standard CGA-320 connection. The cylinder ships empty and must be filled by a local CO2 or compressed-gas supplier before use.

One- and two-cylinder package options are available. Select the cylinder quantity that best fits your installation and CO2 supply needs when ordering.

Important: CO2 cylinders ship empty.

Engineering & Performance

• Dual-Stage Pressure Regulation: Two-stage architecture designed for increased working-pressure stability
• Laser-Precision Metal-on-Metal Valve Seat: Engineered for consistent regulation and long-term operation
• Precision Needle Valves: Independent fine adjustment for each manifold output
• Integrated Bubble Counters: Visual CO2 flow monitoring for each connected aquarium
• Integrated Working-Pressure Gauge: Provides a visual reference for regulator output pressure
• Integrated Pressure Relief Valve: Provides additional system protection
• Premium Pneumatic Components: Selected for precision, reliability, and long-term performance
• USA Inspection & Testing: Each regulator is pressure tested and leak checked prior to shipment

Specifications

• Installation: CGA-320 standard USA CO2 cylinders
• Pressure Reduction: Dual-stage
• Pressure Monitoring: Integrated working-pressure gauge
• Output Pressure Range: 0–60 PSI
• CO2 Distribution: Selectable 1–6 aquarium modular configuration
• Output Control: Independent precision needle valve for each manifold block
• Flow Monitoring: Integrated bubble counter for each manifold block
• Included Cylinder: 5 lb refillable aluminum CO2 cylinder
• Cylinder Quantity: One or two cylinders selectable at purchase
• Included Tubing: 10 feet of CO2-resistant aquarium tubing

What’s Included

• GLA DS-Mini Dual Stage CO2 Regulator
• Selected 1–6 block modular manifold configuration
• Precision needle valve for each selected manifold output
• Integrated bubble counter for each selected manifold output
• Integrated electric solenoid
• Integrated working-pressure gauge
• Selected quantity of 5 lb aluminum CO2 cylinders (ships empty)
• 10 feet of CO2-resistant aquarium tubing
• GLA OEM CO2 tank seal

Please Note: A compatible diffuser, inline atomizer, or CO2 reactor is required to deliver CO2 into the aquarium and is sold separately. The included CO2 cylinder ships empty and must be filled locally before use. For added protection against backflow, we recommend using a compatible inline check valve in your CO2 installation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the DS-Mini CO2 System include everything I need?
The system includes the DS-Mini regulator, selected modular manifold configuration, refillable CO2 cylinder, CO2-resistant tubing, and tank seal. You will also need a compatible diffuser, inline atomizer, or CO2 reactor to introduce CO2 into the aquarium. For added protection against backflow, we recommend using a compatible inline check valve in your CO2 installation.

Does the CO2 cylinder arrive filled?
No. CO2 cylinders ship empty and must be filled by a local CO2 or compressed-gas supplier before use.

Why are one- and two-cylinder options available?
The system can be ordered with either one or two 5 lb aluminum CO2 cylinders. Select the cylinder package that best fits your CO2 supply and installation needs.

What makes the DS-Mini different from the PRO-DS?
Both the DS-Mini and PRO-DS use dual-stage pressure regulation and modular manifold systems. The DS-Mini is designed around a more compact architecture with a 0–60 PSI output range and a single working-pressure gauge. The PRO-DS is GLA’s full-size dual-stage platform with a 0–140 PSI output range, separate cylinder and working-pressure gauges, and expanded capability for higher-pressure applications.

Can the DS-Mini run multiple aquariums?
Yes. The system can be configured with one to six manifold blocks. Each block provides one independently adjustable CO2 output with its own precision needle valve and bubble counter.

Can I expand the manifold later?
Yes. Compatible manifold blocks can be added as your aquarium system grows, up to the six-output configuration. When expanding an existing regulator, select the manifold generation that matches your regulator because G2 and G3 manifold blocks are not cross-compatible.

Does the DS-Mini monitor CO2 cylinder pressure?
No. The DS-Mini uses a single gauge to monitor regulator working pressure. Aquarists who prefer separate gauges for cylinder pressure and working pressure may consider the GLA PRO-DS platform.

Can I use a diffuser, inline atomizer, or CO2 reactor?
Yes. The adjustable 0–60 PSI output supports many planted aquarium CO2 delivery methods when operated within the pressure and flow requirements of the selected equipment.

What size aquarium can I use the DS-Mini on?
The DS-Mini is not restricted to a specific aquarium volume. Appropriate CO2 delivery depends on plant demand, lighting, circulation, diffusion method, surface agitation, and overall system configuration.

Is the DS-Mini suitable for beginners?
Yes. Dual-stage regulators are not inherently more difficult to operate during normal aquarium use. The DS-Mini is suitable for both beginner and experienced aquarists who want compact dual-stage pressure regulation and modular system flexibility.

Choosing the Right GLA CO2 Platform

The GLA GRO is our streamlined single-stage platform for aquarists seeking compact, precise CO2 control. The DS-Mini combines dual-stage pressure regulation with a compact modular design, while the PRO-DS is our full-size dual-stage platform with expanded pressure range, dual-gauge instrumentation, and modular configuration options.

The DS-Mini CO2 System packages the DS-Mini regulator with a refillable aluminum CO2 cylinder and CO2-resistant tubing, providing a configurable foundation for single- or multi-aquarium planted CO2 installations.

Compare GLA CO2 Regulators & Systems

GLA CO2 Equipment

Green Leaf Aquariums specializes in planted aquarium CO2 equipment engineered around precision, reliability, and long-term performance. GLA regulator systems are built specifically for the demands of nature aquariums and high-tech planted aquarium environments.

Each GLA regulator is individually inspected and tested in the USA prior to shipment to help ensure dependable operation and consistent performance.

Support & Warranty

Return Policy: Due to the technical nature of pressurized aquarium CO2 equipment, this item is non-returnable and non-refundable. Qualifying defects remain covered under the GLA Limited Lifetime Warranty and are handled separately through warranty support. Please contact GLA prior to ordering if you need assistance with product selection, installation, or compatibility.

• Limited Lifetime Warranty: Regulator covered against qualifying defects in materials and workmanship
• Lifetime Support: Expert assistance available
• Installation Guidance: We’re here to help you get started

Limited Lifetime Warranty: GLA CO2 regulators are covered by a limited lifetime warranty against defects in materials and workmanship for the original purchaser. This warranty is non-transferable and applies only when the product is used in accordance with Green Leaf Aquariums, LLC (GLA) guidelines and standard operating practices.

Warranty coverage applies only to products purchased directly from greenleafaquariums.com or authorized sales channels. Proof of purchase is required for warranty claims.

This warranty does not guarantee product performance for the lifetime of the purchaser. Product lifespan may vary based on usage, installation, maintenance, and operating conditions.

• Coverage applies only to manufacturing defects under normal use
• GLA reserves the right to repair, replace, or issue store credit at its sole discretion
• If a product is discontinued, a comparable replacement or credit may be provided based on product condition and age

Warranty Exclusions:

• Improper installation, misuse, neglect, or accidental damage
• Use of improper tools, fittings, or excessive force
• Modifications, alterations, or unauthorized repairs
• Damage caused by contamination, corrosion, or improper gas supply
• Normal wear, cosmetic wear, or external damage that does not affect normal functionality

Important: A wrench should only be used to secure the regulator to the CO2 cylinder. Damage resulting from improper use of tools, excessive force, or incorrect installation methods is not covered under this warranty.

GLA is not responsible for damage caused by improper installation or use. However, repair services and support may be available for a fee.

CO2 cylinders, tubing, cartridges, and other consumable or accessory items are not covered under the regulator warranty unless otherwise specified.

For complete warranty coverage, exclusions, claim requirements, and terms, please review our Shipping, Returns & Warranty Policy.