Description
GLA PRO-CO2 Atomizing Reactor 5L
Advanced Atomizing CO₂ Reactor for Nature Aquariums
The GLA PRO-CO2 Atomizing Reactor 5L combines high-pressure CO₂ atomization with reactor-based dissolution to improve CO₂ absorption while reducing gas accumulation.
Unlike traditional reactors that rely primarily on contact time and large gas chambers, the PRO-CO2 Reactor utilizes a removable ceramic atomizer to convert CO₂ into an ultra-fine mist before it enters the reactor chamber. This dramatically increases gas-to-water contact area, helping CO₂ dissolve more rapidly and efficiently than conventional large-bubble reactor designs.
The result is improved CO₂ utilization, reduced gas accumulation, and more consistent CO₂ delivery throughout the aquarium.
Hybrid Atomizing Reactor Technology
The PRO-CO2 Reactor uses a two-stage dissolution process:
- Stage 1: High-pressure atomization creates thousands of microscopic CO₂ bubbles.
- Stage 2: The reactor chamber provides additional contact time for efficient dissolution.
Rather than relying solely on contact time, this hybrid design combines atomization and reactor-based dissolution to help maximize the amount of injected CO₂ that enters solution before water returns to the aquarium.
- Faster CO₂ dissolution
- Improved CO₂ utilization
- Reduced gas accumulation and pocketing
- More stable dissolved CO₂ concentrations
- Cleaner aquarium presentation with no visible in-tank diffuser
Improved CO₂ Utilization
The GLA PRO-CO2 Reactor is designed to help maximize the effectiveness of every bubble of CO₂ introduced into the system.
By atomizing CO₂ before it enters the reactor chamber, the system increases gas-to-water contact area and improves overall absorption efficiency.
Many aquarists can achieve target CO₂ levels while operating at lower bubble rates than conventional large-bubble reactor designs. Actual results will vary depending on aquarium size, filtration flow, circulation, plant mass, and CO₂ demand.
- Reduced CO₂ waste
- Potentially lower operating bubble rates
- Reduced gas accumulation within the reactor
- More stable CO₂ levels
- Longer intervals between CO₂ cylinder refills
By improving overall CO₂ utilization, the reactor helps make more efficient use of every CO₂ cylinder refill.
High-Pressure Ceramic Atomizing Core
At the heart of the reactor is a removable high-pressure ceramic atomizer that produces an ultra-fine CO₂ mist for rapid dissolution and improved reactor efficiency.
- Increased gas-to-water contact area
- Faster CO₂ absorption
- Reduced gas pocketing
- Improved performance across a wide range of flow rates
- Removable for cleaning and servicing
Oversized Internal Flow Path
The latest PRO-CO2 Reactor features an enlarged internal standpipe and expanded flow path designed to reduce restriction and improve water movement through the reactor.
- Larger internal standpipe
- Larger flow passages
- Reduced hydraulic restriction
- Improved flow capacity
- Enhanced compatibility with larger filtration systems
These improvements allow greater water throughput while maintaining excellent CO₂ dissolution performance.
Expanded Filter Compatibility
The reactor includes adapter sets for 12mm, 16mm, 20mm, and 1" tubing, making it suitable for a wide range of canister filters, external pumps, compact planted aquariums, and larger high-flow systems.
- 12mm Adapter Set Included
- 16mm Adapter Set Included
- 20mm Adapter Set Included
- 1" Adapter Set Included
- Compatible with many Fluval FX Series installations
Each adapter connection utilizes a clear silicone O-ring to provide a water-tight seal between the adapter and reactor lid.
High Flow Capability
The PRO-CO2 Reactor is engineered to operate across a wide range of flow rates and is particularly well suited for larger planted aquariums, high-energy aquascapes, and high-flow filtration systems.
- Minimum Recommended Flow: Approximately 300 GPH
- Typical Operating Range: 400–1200 GPH+
- Suitable for many canister filters and return pumps
- No additional power required; operates using existing filtration flow
Push-Connect CO₂ System
The reactor utilizes a push-connect CO₂ fitting and removable atomizer assembly for quick installation and simple servicing.
- Tool-free CO₂ tubing installation
- Easy atomizer removal
- Simplified maintenance
- Long-term serviceability
Serviceable Atomizer Design
Unlike permanently integrated systems, the PRO-CO2 Atomizing Reactor uses a removable ceramic atomizer assembly.
- Removable for cleaning and maintenance
- Replaceable if needed
- No need to replace the entire reactor for atomizer maintenance
Maintenance-Friendly Construction
The large reactor body and removable top allow easier inspection, access, and routine maintenance. The clear chamber also makes it easier to observe reactor operation during setup and troubleshooting.
Why Choose a CO₂ Reactor?
Many aquarium CO₂ systems lose efficiency when undissolved gas accumulates within equipment or returns to the aquarium before fully dissolving.
The GLA PRO-CO2 Reactor is engineered to maximize CO₂ absorption before water returns to the aquarium, helping provide:
- Stable CO₂ levels
- Improved plant growth potential
- Reduced CO₂ consumption
- Cleaner aquarium presentation
- No visible in-tank diffuser
- Reduced visible microbubbles in the aquarium
- No additional power required
Specifications
- Reactor Chamber Capacity: 5 Liters
- Height: Approximately 19"
- Diameter: Approximately 6"
- Minimum Recommended Flow: Approximately 300 GPH
- Typical Operating Range: 400–1200 GPH+
- Installation Location: Filter return line
- CO₂ Connection: Push-connect fitting
- Included Adapter Sizes: 12mm, 16mm, 20mm, and 1"
- Construction: Acrylic
What’s Included
- GLA PRO-CO2 Atomizing Reactor 5L with Installed High-Pressure Ceramic Atomizer
- 12mm Adapter Set
- 16mm Adapter Set
- 20mm Adapter Set
- 1" Adapter Set
- Clear Silicone O-Rings
- Installation & Maintenance Guide
Feature Highlights
- Hybrid Atomizing Reactor Technology: Combines high-pressure atomization with reactor-based dissolution.
- Improved CO₂ Utilization: Helps reduce CO₂ waste and may allow lower operating bubble rates.
- Reduced Gas Pocketing: Designed to minimize gas accumulation inside the reactor chamber.
- Removable Ceramic Atomizer: Serviceable atomizer core for easier cleaning and maintenance.
- Push-Connect CO₂ Installation: CO₂ tubing and atomizer assembly push in easily for simple setup and servicing.
- Oversized Internal Flow Path: Helps reduce restriction while supporting strong water movement.
- Expanded Filter Compatibility: Includes 12mm, 16mm, 20mm, and 1" adapter sets.
- Fluval FX Series Compatible: Designed to support many high-flow Fluval FX filter installations.
- External Installation: Keeps the aquarium clean with no visible in-tank diffuser.
- No Additional Power Required: Operates using existing filtration flow.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is this different from a traditional CO₂ reactor?
Traditional CO₂ reactors primarily rely on contact time to dissolve larger CO₂ bubbles. The GLA PRO-CO2 Atomizing Reactor first atomizes CO₂ into an ultra-fine mist before introducing it into the reactor chamber. This increases gas-to-water contact area and improves overall dissolution efficiency.
Will this reactor reduce CO₂ consumption?
Many aquarists find they can achieve target CO₂ levels while operating at lower bubble rates compared to conventional large-bubble reactor designs. Actual results will vary depending on aquarium size, flow rate, plant mass, circulation, and CO₂ setup.
Does the reactor eliminate gas pocketing?
The atomizing core is designed to significantly reduce the gas accumulation commonly associated with traditional reactor designs. Small amounts of gas accumulation may still occur depending on flow rate, CO₂ injection level, and system configuration.
Is the ceramic atomizer serviceable?
Yes. The ceramic atomizer assembly is removable for cleaning, maintenance, or replacement if needed.
What filter tubing sizes are included?
The reactor includes adapter sets for four installation sizes: 12mm, 16mm, 20mm, and 1" tubing.
Are silicone O-rings included?
Yes. Clear silicone O-rings are included for the adapter connections. Each O-ring should be properly seated beneath the adapter connection to help provide a water-tight seal between the adapter and reactor lid.
Is this compatible with Fluval FX Series filters?
Yes. The included 1" adapter set provides compatibility with many Fluval FX Series filter installations.
Where should the reactor be installed?
The reactor should be installed externally on the filter return line after the canister filter and before water returns to the aquarium.
Correct installation:
Canister Filter → PRO-CO2 Reactor → Aquarium Return
Do not install the reactor on the filter intake line.
Will I still need an in-tank diffuser?
No. The reactor is installed externally and is designed to dissolve CO₂ before water returns to the aquarium, helping maintain a clean display without a visible in-tank diffuser.
Does the reactor require additional power?
No. The reactor operates using existing filtration flow and does not require a separate pump or power source.
Can the atomizer be removed for cleaning?
Yes. The atomizer assembly can be removed for routine cleaning and servicing.
Will I see microbubbles in the aquarium?
The reactor is designed to maximize CO₂ dissolution before water returns to the aquarium. Depending on flow rate, CO₂ injection level, and aquarium configuration, some microbubbles may still be present, but many aquarists experience significantly fewer visible bubbles compared to traditional diffuser-based systems.
Do I need any tools to tighten the reactor lid screws?
No. The reactor lid screws are designed to be tightened by hand only. Do not use screwdrivers, drills, power tools, pliers, or excessive force when tightening the lid screws.
Over-tightening may damage screws, threads, seals, O-rings, or acrylic components. Tighten the screws using moderate hand pressure only.
Is a check valve included?
A check valve is recommended between the regulator and reactor to help prevent water backflow into the CO₂ system. Check valve sold separately and not included with the reactor.
Improved CO₂ Utilization. Reduced Gas Accumulation. Professional-Grade Performance.
Customer Reviews
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GLA products
There many companies out there to chose from but not like GLA. I purchased everything for my planted tank from them and the quality is spot on. The support team is super cool and stay with you till they know your set. Thanks GLA.
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They should call this the co2 blaster 1000
This thing works! It’s a true beast of a co2 reactor and works flawlessly. Pro tip: This isn’t a diffuser and works on different principals so if you’ve never used one have GLA free tech support help you adjust your system. GLA was absolutely stellar with customer support. They helped me tune my aquascape gas exchange and now my plants are growing before my eyes, literally! The pearling I get now is just unreal and a sight to see. This co2 reactor is worth every penny.
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My diffusion is at level 1000 now!
Took a few days to get completely dialed in, but holy crap pearling plants! Using an in-tank diffuser prior I got minimal pearling. But now, some of my plants started floating to the top they were so bubbly! Never in my life would I have ever considered a reactor until seeing one of these at my LFS. I’ll never go back to an in-tank diffuser this thing is incredible.
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An absolute unit.
Wasn’t really sure how big it was going to be. It’s huge lol. But not only that it’s extremely well made, very high quality and works exactly as it should. Really cool, came with 3 sets of hose connections and even scroll of Teflon tape and some gaskets. 10 out of 10 from me!
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This reactor is super nice.
Wasn't expecting this when I opened the box. Very nice size and quality craftsmanship. For my 90g its working flawlessly. If you are looking for a profesional grade co2 reactor, this is it.
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Works perfect!
My first reactor and I’m beyond pleased. I was over the 7-Up look from my regular diffuser and since using this reactor the active pearling is intense. Plants are responding and I’m sure my fish are loving the extra oxygen produced by the plants. Very high quality co2 reactor!
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I found the solution to my co2 levels in this co2 reactor.
Almost gave up on my 120g scape due to so many issues keeping my co2 levels stable. I will say GLA helped a ton with my tank. I was doing so many things wrong I had no idea. By implementing this reactor and GLA’s guidance my plants are busting with oxygen before lights out. Amazing product and customer support you’d expect to pay for, I certainly should have paid them for all the help. Thank you GLA.
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Where has this been all my life!
My plants are pearling like crazy since I started using this reactor. Needless to say this bad boy works!
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This is one heck of a co2 reactor.
I saw the dimensions in the listing, but it doesn’t do it justice. The bad boy is nice and big. I have this on a 160g tank and it’s working superbly. It did take me a couple days to adjust things, to be expected. Super happy, very well made reactor from GLA.
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Works like a charm and total clarity.
Works flawlessly. My tank is finally crystal clear and no issue with fizzy looking water. However I will say be sure ot use a check valve on your co2 tubing as this does not come with one. Also, cool side effect happens is your plants will start to produce millions of oxygen bubbles. My old diffuser was able to do this at a fraction of the level. Now the amount of oxygen production is super intense and quite beautiful. My fish eat the pure oxygen bubbles for dinner lol. Anyways, great products from GLA Im super happy.
