CO2 tanks are often used for applications requiring carbon dioxide gas. Below are some common questions about purchasing, using, and maintaining CO2 tanks:
What CO2 tank should I get?
To create fog effects, you need a siphon CO2 tank rather than a standard one. Siphon tanks provide liquid CO2 from the bottom, which is required for fog output.
For the best fog effects, opt for a 20lb or 50lb siphon CO2 tank based on your specific needs.
Where can I buy a CO2 Cannon tank?
Purchase CO2 and refill tanks from major suppliers like Matheson, Linde, and Airgas. Use their online locators to find fill stations near you. You can also check with local industrial gas suppliers.
Click for the nearest location:
When should I get my CO2 tank refilled?
If the fog output is weak despite having a full tank, you likely have the wrong tank type. Request an exchange at the shop for a siphon model.
Monitor the fog thickness – when output starts diminishing, your liquid CO2 is low. That’s the time to get a refill.
Once CO2 liquid is fully depleted, pressure remains but the fog won’t form. Fog works best above 25% humidity. Check your weather app for local levels.
For reliable performance, avoid direct sunlight and keep tanks below 80° Fahrenheit. Higher heat causes pressure spikes.
How long will the CO2 gas last in your tank?
For fog machines, expect approximately 1 second of use per pound of tank capacity. A 20lb tank may provide 20 seconds of fog burst. The actual time varies. Using your MOKA SFX product correctly in 2-3 second bursts is recommended.
Can CO2 cannons be used in series?
Yes, you can link MOKA SFX CO2 cannons together in series using passthrough connectors to supply multiple units from one gas source.
It is recommended you feed CO2 into both ends of your setup for balanced pressure across all connected cannons. Use adapter hoses designed for daisy-chaining to connect your CO2 cannons. For best performance, opt for 5ft, 8ft, or 15ft length hoses. You should install terminator caps on any unused quick-connect outputs to prevent gas leaks.
Connecting your CO2 cannons in series allows the tanks to drain the consumer evenly, preventing any single cannon from running out early. Your gas source can be multiple combined tanks, either parallel-linked or fed into a manifold. For optimal operation, limit each daisy-chain loop to 2 connected CO2 cannon units at most.
View the CO2 cannons connection tutorials here:
How often should you get your CO2 tank retested?
Tanks must be retested every 5 years for safety. The retest date is stamped on the collar. Outdated tanks won’t be refilled until inspected and recertified.
Do CO2 tanks need to be upright?
Always secure tanks upright. Keep your gas cylinder in the proper upright position, never sideways or upside down. Avoid tilting it even slightly if possible. Proper cylinder orientation applies to all gases – carbon dioxide, nitrogen, helium, propane, etc.
The reason is that CO2 tanks are designed with safety relief valves calibrated for vapor withdrawal from the top. Tilting can cause liquid CO2 to enter valves, leading to potential tank rupture or uncontrolled release of product.
In addition, the siphon tube that feeds liquid CO2 in a fog machine tank depends on gravity to function. Tipping the tank disables the siphon system. So keep tanks vertically oriented for safety and optimal performance.
Additionally, when operating tanks, work in well-ventilated environments and turn off valves when they are not actively in use. Taking these extra precautions will further ensure you handle CO2 safely.
