Best $150 DIY Carbonator [Food on a Boat]

In this episode of FOOD ON A BOAT, Clark talks about the DIY, home-built water carbonation system he built for $150. This gives us a virtually unlimited supply of seltzer water while living aboard our boat when used in combination with our watermaker. We make one or two 2-liter bottles of flavored seltzer per week, and this 10-lb CO2 tank will easily last us 10 years without a refill! It attaches to any standard soda bottle. This carbonator could also be used to carbonate homemade beer or soda pop, or to make sparkling wine. It's much cheaper, more durable, and longer-lasting than a SodaStream. Several other boaters have asked us to explain and review our system, so here it is!
Below is a list of the parts needed to build this system yourself, and our favorite source for flavorings. If you purchase using the links below, you'll get the equipment quickly and easily through Amazon, and we sometimes earn a few bucks. (Many of these parts can be acquired for less money from eBay, or your local AirGas or other gas supply store).
If you have questions or comments, please leave them below. We try to answer all of them!
CARBONATION SYSTEM PARTS (Total $150-$175)
This list was updated in October 2020, since some parts are out of stock.
10-lb Tank ($75): amzn.to/2Ir2q7N
5-lb Tank ($65): amzn.to/358CFCV
Regulator ($40): amzn.to/2TDIaF7
Hose ($20): amzn.to/2OnNM4Y
Ball Lock Valve ($5): amzn.to/2LOchH3
Brass Fitting - likely not needed with this regulator ($5): amzn.to/31ToeRi
Carbonation Cap, Hose & Air Stone ($19): amzn.to/2oY4cGx
FLAVORINGS ($1-$10 each) - These are much stronger than regular extracts. Use 1 drop per glass of seltzer (we use a chopstick and stir it in). A 1-oz bottle will last you a LONG time (we have had this system for 2 years and have yet to empty one bottle of flavoring). You can also buy variety packs with 1 dram of liquid each (1/16 the size). You can add sugar or other sweeteners, but we prefer flavored seltzer only. These flavors are also great for yogurt, smoothies, protein shakes, baking, and other foods. Just make sure you purchase oil-free ones if you plan to use them in seltzer water.
SMALL BOTTLE FLAVOR PACKS (For variety)
24-pack LorAnn Super Strong Flavors with Cola + Other Flavors ($28): amzn.to/30KVh8J
12-pack LorAnn Super Strong Flavors - Fruit ($13): amzn.to/31QOpIb
6-pack LorAnn Super Strong Flavors - Fruit ($11): amzn.to/35dsZaC
Choose your Own 12 Flavors ($16): amzn.to/2LNrx6O
1-OZ BOTTLE FLAVORS (The kind we use)
Black Cherry: amzn.to/2LPMZbs
Blackberry: amzn.to/30SjHgt
Citrus Flower: amzn.to/31Tt2Gk
Coconut: amzn.to/2VcOMKS
Grape: amzn.to/2AM2zhW
Grapefruit: amzn.to/30P9nGe
Key Lime: amzn.to/2MiGxsu
Lemonade: amzn.to/2IqhO4h
Lime: amzn.to/3380hWF
Mango: amzn.to/2LPOIgY
Orange Cream: amzn.to/359QBNb
Peach: amzn.to/33fXGKv
Peach-Mango: amzn.to/31Sew1q
Pina Colada: amzn.to/2AMMhWg
Pineapple: amzn.to/2AJq7nw
Raspberry: amzn.to/2OnsrbT
Root Beer: amzn.to/2Vgssjn
Tropical Punch: amzn.to/2AJGrVv
...and more.
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[@EmilyAndClark]

Hi everyone! This is the first of several food-related videos we plan to produce. What questions do you have about food on a boat? Leave them below. (P.S., please pardon our current color-correction efforts and any technical issues. We recently switched to a new video editing software, reorganized our video files, etc. and we are still learning!) Thanks for watching. - Emily & Clark

[@demesrvl6761]

I didn't notice color issues. But , like people, I'm more about content and intent than visual splash. Maybe that's why "Insta" leaves me "meh". You are two of the most authentic souls I've run across in a long time. You enrich our lives by sharing yours.

[@Kampup]

Looks great, do you have a water maker? a video on construction parts and cost would be great, thank you.

[@areyouserial]

You need to update your Amazon links! Great video.

[@EmilyAndClark]

Thanks areyouserial. I just choose replacement items and Emily will be updating the links right away.

[@jasonhoyt9916]

May the algorithms of KZbin be damned! This is the best video on this subject and it took hours of surfing to find it. Thank you Clark! Just what I've been searching for. You rock!

[@EmilyAndClark]

Thanks Jason. Subscribe, you might like some of our other stuff.

[@ashleysmith-ib1vg]

I'd have to agree. Mostly because the links are all there to click an buy the stuff for yourself

[@wayne00k]

As a home "carbonator" for over 20 years, I offer a few suggestions... Purchase extra washers and O-rings. You will likely NOT be able to find these at your local hardware store. These will wear out and cause leaks down the road. These, especially the O-rings, should be lubricated... I use "Sanitary Petrol-Gel" from McGlaughlin Oil Co. But there are others as well. This is a food-safe, tasteless and odorless lubricant used by the soda industry... and very inexpensive and lasts forever. I lubricate once each month - takes 10 seconds with a q-tip or clean fingertip. I also find it simpler to leave the filler cap inside the retractable connector. This further reduces wear on the lubricated O-ring... you will find the cap will freely spin within the connector allowing it to easily screw onto the bottle. I also change and lubricate the O-ring on the regulator where it attaches to the tank. Replacement can only be done using an Allen key. Using the lubricant I change these gaskets only when needed and these last me a little over a year. I prepare 4 two-liter bottles every day for my family. One other thing... water absorbs CO2 best when cold. Refrigerating your water first helps... but we have made a habit of leaving 4-inches of soda in the bottle then freezing it... then top up the bottle with filtered water and begin carbonation. Cheers to all!

[@AfricanFlightStar]

I still don't know why this video hasn't blown up - this is the coolest gadget ever! We have been using a sodastream for a couple of years but I'm fed up with the exorbitant cost of the refills. I just found a 10lb CO2 tank with regulator on FB Marketplace for $25 here in Daytona Beach. Plan to buy it tomorrow. Am also very interested in using this for food preservation as you've described, another ingenious plan. Thanks for sharing all your knowledge Clark, super useful info and much appreciated, cheers!

[@EmilyAndClark]

Thanks. Consider sharing links to my videos that you think others may like. It really helps bring in new viewers.

[@EmilyAndClark]

Also. I'm in Florida. If you get down Mount Dora way I'd like to meet. You have been watching a long time

[@ikichullo]

Something about you seems very friendly and approachable

[@EmilyAndClark]

Thank you that was nice of you to say.

[@dougeastman]

My family RVs full time and we have a big sparkling water appetite. I've been wanting to build a system like this. It was great seeing yours in action, and the product recommendations. The weight and money savings will be a big plus for us. I enjoy your channel, I think a lot of your content is useful for RVers, too. Looking forward to this new series!

[@EmilyAndClark]

Thanks so much! Yes, it will definitely save you weight! Check out those flavorings, too. We like that you can flavor a glass at a time, without making the whole bottle absorb the flavor. -Emily

[@ashleysmith-ib1vg]

Aside from the lengthy intro-this is a really really good video

[@DebraWilderMeditation]

Clark looking forward to more of these. I have food storage problems I need to work on (keeping large amounts fresh while still using). I now giant bag lentils in freezer to keep out weevils.

[@jeffs.2752]

I do the same. I don't have the tube inside the bottle. I shake the hell out of it. Just make sure the water is very cold. I'd use stainless steel fittings vs. brass, I've heard CO2 will react with the brass causing corrosion and possibly releasing copper into the water. Stainless probably better for use on a boat anyway.

[@bradfordsimms715]

Well Clark you did it again, just a great and simple application for water and food on a budget , I had a soda stream but gave up on it because of the CO2 cost. Add the rice storage for free and it's a game changer, THANKS

[@EmilyAndClark]

Thanks Bradford. Thank me by passing my videos around to your friends. That helps our viewership so much.

[@bellilly]

i think i finally figured out my seltzer making technique - thank you for your input to my questions a few months back. the bottle shaking, that seems to be the key. i'm using 1lit soda bottles, 45-50 pressure, shake like crazy while carbonating, about 2mins or until the fizzing sound stops right after i stop shaking. : )

[@mfb6310]

I hear if the water is reallllly cold prior to fizzing, it'll go more quickly!

[@EmilyAndClark]

Yes you are both right.

[@bravobrk]

Initially i was not very convinced, by the end of the video ill make sure to get everything set up to make this work. Just need to find a supplier in my town. Thanks for the video!

[@svphoenixandme776]

I very much liked it. Never knew how simple that was. Thanks

[@grumpyjohntxredneckrc6346]

Nice, I've Been Using One Like Yours For Last 10+ Years, I Got A Whole 6-Head Soda Fountain Machine For FREE Outta A Gas Station We Demolished, Including (3) Near Full 3' Tall Tanks... LOL Thanks PS I Also Refill My Paint Gun Cylinders w/Them!

[@jeffdege4786]

I used Soda Stream for a number of years, after finding an adapter that would allow me to use CO2 canisters intended for Paintball guns. Much cheaper that Soda Stream's proprietary bottles. I was able to recharge them at Paintball supply stores.

[@kenbell2745]

Made one years ago, super easy. It does make the water very acidic.

[@TheSaint135]

have you ever had a soda bottle explode while charging it? And how many refills do you get out of a soda bottle before you replace it?

[@EmilyAndClark]

I once put dry ice and water in a soda bottle to force it to blow. It's amazing how much pressure they take. I believe they are rated to over 200psi. Also amazing how much of a boom it made when exploding. Wouldn't want to be near it when it blew. I use the bottles indefinitely. But we make a point of not crushing them. If the bottle doesn't look perfect we toss it and start with another. With gentle handling they last about forever.

[@ernieRUOK]

The welding place by my house tried to sell me a 5lb bottle for $150 lol. I ended up buying my bottle from Amazon and getting it filled at the local paint shop.

[@mkv31457]

I forgot to add…. You saved me the trouble of returning a regulator I thought wasn’t any good. Turn the bottle upside down and watch the co2 flow. Thanks

[@salted-anchovy]

Very interesting video! I'm anxious to see what comes next. Thank you Emily and Clark for sharing with all of us the tricks of your unmatched liveaboard expertise.

[@richsellskc]

great show, content. thanks and happy sailing!

[@HansOleClemmensen]

I hooked my Sodastream up to a 2.85 kg co2 bottle. $27 to fill. Had to use the fitting from a Sodastream tank top to regulate the pressure

[@kellenpollard5496]

Thanks for helping me make my addiction more affordable

[@1stworldrefugee443]

Hey Emily and Clark! I have a recipe to up your game and try new flavors! My quick shrub recipe is as follows: --1 cup sugar --1 cup apple cider vinegar --Any fruit. My favorite is pineapple. Core the pineapple, cut and mash into sugar and vinegar recipe. --1 Oz per 8oz glass of carbonated water for any fruit drink you want... You can also zest a grapefruit, then peel and soak the fruit and zest(not the pith) for a citrus drink. You won't ever buy flavoring again. I'm looking forward to trying more exotic fruits. The best part is this has a shelf life of at least 6 months. It agrees very well. You guys have inspired me to get a sail boat and try my hand at traveling and doing the love aboard thing. I look forward to seeing ya on the water :)

[@EmilyAndClark]

You might be on to something here. Tropical fruits are too low in acid. I find them sickeningly sweet. If I was to drink vinegar I'd like to try to use it to fix a mango.

[@1stworldrefugee443]

@@EmilyAndClark you don't even notice the vinegar, that's what the sugar is for and vinegar acts more as a preservative, so it's a perfect syrup while also getting those vitamins

[@ivanyamanaka26]

I've been using a system like that for years now & true to what you said! & Just seen your preserving food with CO2 video i never thought of that! Will definitely try it!! Thanks for posting!

[@jenniferweiss3546]

We finally made one! We've been using it for days. Thanks for the "how to"!!

[@EmilyAndClark]

Great.

[@MasterMindInfinite]

You make fresh water while at sea??? Please make a video!

[@evanh.6462]

water distiller I assume?

[@EmilyAndClark]

No, reverse osmosis.

[@cookingdude1237]

Great video brother. see that you made it in 2020. I am watching it in 2022 just in two years the price on amazon went from $150 you were talking about to $253.87. crazy. we are still going to buy it though. your vid. is superb. Great presence on camera, very good at explaining things and your personality resonates.

[@EmilyAndClark]

Yeah sorry. You can buy something similar but cheaper. At the time that I shopped that was the cheapest "good" one. Anyway feel free to buy any parts that are similar. eBay often has cheaper prices. But I bet there are other choices on Amazon as well

[@cookingdude1237]

@@EmilyAndClark thanks for the reply. I'm going to hit up their once a year deal days in about a week and buy the ones you suggested, even at the higher price. I like having quality tools even if i have to pay more. don't like having to worry about stuff breaking when i need it most. great vids, i subbed, keep em coming.

[@EmilyAndClark]

As you like and thanks as we get a tiny kickback. But, I actually use a different regulator. It's no longer available, I chose this one because it looked good and was priced well at the time. Likely the price has gone up due partly to this video.

[@justforsomegoodfun]

I have been doing this since I started homebrewing many years ago and I can concur.... it works great! I was glad to see your video on injecting CO2 into grains to preserve as well. I hadn't thought of that! I would suggest that maybe you let people know not to exceed around 100psi on a PET bottle though. Not everyone has as much common sense as you do. ;) Thanks for the videos, guys!

[@EmilyAndClark]

The regulators I recommend have 60psi pop off valves. -C

[@justforsomegoodfun]

@@EmilyAndClark Good call. So.... I have the same blue plastic one you have and probably from the same company in Florida which I have used for years. I also have the stainless one with the "stone" that you have which I (luckily) bought about two years ago or so. This video reminded me to dig them out and use them in an effort to reduce my plastic consumption. And..... the blue one is broken right on the stem of it. I think it was some weird youtube voodoo! lol ;)

[@mfb6310]

@@EmilyAndClark That's a relief, cuz, I think Jay knows me, somehow...................

[@projecttrawler]

Thanks man your going to make me go broke building all these awesome gadgets lol

[@elsamach5616]

I just started going through the videos and these food related vids and the financial etf and banking are great … I’m looking into getting on the water hoping for December… I’m working and have been putting aside at least 100- per check to a boat fund that’s not touched… it’s growing but not as fast as I’d like but until I finish the boat work I can’t stress about the funds… n yes Amazon is a great place to find things for boat needs cheap… I’m going to be looking into neighborhood CO sellers to see if I can get my hands on one definitely for the food I only drink straight H2O… thank you … more financial vids please…

[@EmilyAndClark]

That's how I did it

[@elsamach5616]

@@EmilyAndClark thank you. Hope to see more informational vids. All my love to yas…

[@TurreTuntematon]

Great video! 😊

[@marklicc]

Awesomeness!! Can you do this with glass bottles? I don't like drinking out of plastic bottles.

[@EmilyAndClark]

Sure, as long as the bottle was for carbonated beverages and has a standard screw on cap. Do they make those?

[@mfb6310]

@@EmilyAndClark Amazon: bottles for beer/carb'd drinks with old fashioned swing clip tops; or order perrier bottles n drink up n keep the bottles, OR there are LARS stainless steel insulated bottles, seems a bit safer? (put in freezer before fizzing up!?) I don't know how to add the links..

[@justme.9711]

What about making C02 with brown vinegar and baking soda and remember that c02 sinks, so it will drain down and force the normal atmosphere gas/es out of the bottles.

[@EmilyAndClark]

Whatever turns you on. Seems like a lot of work and no pressure so no carbonated water.

[@justme.9711]

@@EmilyAndClark I agree. Since it's so cheap and not a danger on board - just get a bottle.

[@mkv31457]

Thank you

[@sailingeden9866]

Great video

[@grayman7208]

enjoyed ... thanks.

[@TheSaint135]

I just put together a system like yours and I absolutely love it but I have 2 questions : have you ever had a soda bottle explode while charging it? And how many refills do you get out of a soda bottle before you replace it?

[@EmilyAndClark]

Yes I had one explode but it didn't have water in it. It was worse - rice. It became a rice grenade! What a mess. I now don't use any bottle with any deformation.

[@DebraWilderMeditation]

Peach! I was just thinking about making one last week. Been denying myself fizzy water too long. I tried the Sodastream for fridge at housesitting job. Convenient but only lasts a few days on high mode. Big waste.

[@tomfuhs6801]

Great video! I’ll be doing this on our boat. I like systems/tools that have more than one purpose. One question, are there co2 tanks available that can be laid on their side?

[@EmilyAndClark]

You would get liquid co2 into the regulator unless you connected a tube to the valve inside the tank and marked the UP direction. Probably not worth the hasle. Not really kosher but I bet if the regulator was UP you would be fine at slow delivery rates. The valve and feed tube could absorb enough heat to keep it all working.

[@GeeZeeGZ]

Thank-you for another great and informative video!

[@EmilyAndClark]

You're welcome George.

[@llamaflaca]

Love it, thank you for providing the links to every part. Question: Should you have a soda cap with a CO2 difuser ( two connections on the cap) so that one is for the CO2 going in, the other is for the O going out. I think it is also called a blow off valve. Place a valve on the O release and you dont have to cap and uncap the bottle or containers every time.

[@EmilyAndClark]

No you need the pressure. Just squeeze the bottle before you final tighten the carbonation cap. That will remove nearly all the air so your atmosphere is nearly 100% CO2

[@supertom8552]

Brilliant ! Thank you for sharing !

[@vigorousseb6993]

This was a great video. Next, please do a video on canning meat and vegetables!

[@EmilyAndClark]

Hi Keith! It took us a while to get around to editing it, but here's the video on canning meat (it's not published yet, but here's an early look, since you asked) kzbin.info/www/bejne/jZ-vkGSwqtqSrrs - E

[@zugonero6506]

Hi, great video! Does that co2 tank have a syphon hose in it? I read that tanks without syphon hose have to be turned upsidedown to work?

[@EmilyAndClark]

That's if you want liquid CO2. For this you want gas so no syphon.

[@pythonista3858]

Great video, but it is not clear how the tube (w/ 1/4" Flare Fittings) is connected with CGA320 regulator. I can't figure out the connection with the link provided. Maybe if you can take photo showing the connection, it would be great. Or any additional instrucion would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

[@EmilyAndClark]

It's been a while since I've made this video and specific regulators keep becoming unavailable. I haven't used this one myself. It looks like a 1/4 flare fitting I'd you leave off the hose barbs. There is a brass fitting in my list of parts that certainly is 1/4 flare (though it might take some heat to change it out). This is a DIY project and might take a trip to the hardware store and some personal efforts to get it together. If you buy this and feel there is something that I can change please send me a note. I haven't had anyone say they have had problems and this video is quite popular so I'm assuming it works.

[@diegoch04]

Really cool

[@EmilyAndClark]

Glad you liked it

[@AfricanFlightStar]

Fantastic idea Clark, thanks for sharing this with us. I recently convinced my girlfriend to get a soda Stream machine, she loves it but as you say, it is expensive in comparison to yours, but it is still way cheaper than buying store soda bottles and we don’t have the plastic waste. But your setup is The Bomb 💥👍🏻😁 A couple of questions that I couldn’t understand from your video: 1) What stops the bottle from exploding as you are filling it, is it the regulator that stops the inflow at 40 psi? (Or whatever you said it at). 2) What pressure are those typical soda bottles rated up to? 3) Also, With the screwtop that you suggested, does that mean you have to buy one of those for each bottle you carbonate and store, including bottles that you may have food goods in? That sounds expensive at $18 each. Is there an alternative besides that plastic top that you had to reinforce? Thanks again, cheers!

[@EmilyAndClark]

1 yes the regulator 2 over 100 psi. Watch last Saturday's video. 3 don't get the plastic one. Get the stainless one. The plastic one fails fast. Watch the 3 videos again. I talk about this. You only need one filler cap Glad you enjoyed our videos. Hope you will find others that you enjoy as well.

[@AfricanFlightStar]

@@EmilyAndClark Many thanks for this replay, much appreciated!

[@joeyadams8939]

How do you use this for food I really enjoyed this video

[@EmilyAndClark]

Thanks. There has been a lot of interest about this. We are planning on a video all about this gas. A little chemistry and a lot about practice uses. I think we might even vent a LOT of it into Temptress, we might have picked up roaches in Florida, saw a few last time. Filling her with co2 should do the trick. And look real cool.

[@williambunting803]

Fabulous. Word of warning though, you should not keep the bottle or the head permanently below decks, because as you know CO2 is heavier than air and if the bottle or the hose develops a leak it will fill the whole boat and you may just not wake up one morning ( see the Lake Nyos event for context). As I’m sure you know the CO2 in the bottle is liquid CO2 so has way more gas than you imagine. I will be following your lead as we like our carbonated drinks too. So, key facts are regulator set to 45psi? Refrigeration pressure hose? And where did you find the fittings?

[@EmilyAndClark]

Hi William, you must be new to our videos. Hope you enjoy the rest of our channel. Whenever we do a DIY project we list all the parts and sources in the description. Take a look. I run the regulator at about 50 psi. As for the chance of CO2 poisoning, we trust the main valve in the closed position, our boat will never get hot enough to burst the safety disk. And we all have to decide for ourselves how much risk we are comfortable with. Trust us we understand the situation and this is one of the more minor risks this lifestyle subjects us to.

[@williambunting803]

Emily & Clark's Adventure Thanks for the Info, Clark. I’ll be ordering all of that. Your system looks like it does a deeper carbonation than the Soda Stream, and in larger bottles.

[@EmilyAndClark]

William, thanks. How about doing us a favor and sharing one of our playlists on social media. We would really appreciate the new viewers and your friends might enjoy our offerings.

[@williambunting803]

Emily & Clark's Adventure Hi Clark, I am happy to do that though I am not active on facebook, but do blog a lot. Please send me an email through [e-mail] as I am also interested in micro housing.

[@HansKlossJ23]

Excellent review Clark, any advise on quick CO2 fill up without shaking the bottle for 5-10min :)

[@EmilyAndClark]

Squeeze all the air out of the bottle first so the partial pressure of the CO2 is higher. Using an air stone helps a bit. And refrigerating the water first of course. The formation of carbonic acid is a function of pressure, surface area, co2 concentration and temperature. So make them all as good as possible. Shouldn't take more then a minute or so though

[@HansKlossJ23]

@@EmilyAndClark Thanks, I do all of the above and my pressure gauge is set to 45psi but I still have to shake it for a while (wife likes bubbles) when I increase pressure safety valve pops.

[@EmilyAndClark]

@@HansKlossJ23 you can easily disassemble the safety valve and either replace or just stretch the spring. I had the same issue. I run at 60 psi now.

[@HansKlossJ23]

@@EmilyAndClark Fantastic, thanks again for the quick reply.

[@HansKlossJ23]

Me again Clark, I set gauge to 65, is leaving bottle on the counter for lets say 15min will do the job (high carbonation) or I still have to shake it?

[@fairwind8222]

Thanks Clark, we did it too, works great, but we are getting carried away with flavers, I even did my coffee, not so good but not bad ether hahaha

[@fairwind8222]

Haha cheap red wine

[@EmilyAndClark]

So glad you are enjoying it. Sounds like you are having a lot of fun with it. I'd you need to preserve food don't forget how well this works for dry goods.

[@cyberguroo]

Great vid Clark!! You are my kinda guy!!! I like you, no homo. :D

[@goinsgroove]

Thanks for the video. I purchased the list of materials. It is missing the ball valve. Hope to be bubbling tomorrow.

[@EmilyAndClark]

Regulators that I recommend keep becoming unavailable. I try to choose a new one that looks good but doesn't cost too much. It will work fine without the valve after the regulator. There is an automatic valve in the connector at the other end of the hose. But I like the valve so I can open the gas flow slower to not stress the bottle as much. Enjoy! -C

[@goinsgroove]

Emily & Clark's Adventure 🙏. I just enjoyed my first glass. I have been enjoying your videos. Your tale is inspiring. I once dreamed of sailing the 🌎. Alas, I found that I am a land animal. I am retiring early though, and will be back to exploring the world soon. This setup will definitely be in my land ship.

[@EmilyAndClark]

Lately we have been adding a bit of gin and lime to our carbonated water. It's such a simple and light drink on a hot evening. Glad you got yours working. One tip I think I forgot to put in the video, squeeze the bottle to remove the air before tightening the cap. That will give you a higher partial pressure of co2 and the process will go quicker.

[@mickrelic4891]

Emily & Clark, Another great vid, will do that for my boat. What pressure is the CO2 Bottle at, and also you said will last for one season. How many litres of carbonated water is that? Thanks in advance.. MR

[@EmilyAndClark]

The co2 is liquid in the bottle so the pressure is a function of the temperature until it's very nearly empty. My high pressure gauge is wonky but it's usually a bit above 1000psi. Just Google "vapor pressure co2" for the correct answer. I really don't know how many liters. Lots. We just don't count. That's why we went by seasons.

[@mickrelic4891]

thanks..

[@Ryan-mn2dd]

I built a similar system but used a schrader valve bolted into a hole in a plastic bottle top. Your system looks way better. One thing I always wondered was about the quality of the Co2. We got our tank at a welding supply store but I was wondering if there is such a thing as "food grade" Co2. Do you know anything about that? Thanks!

[@EmilyAndClark]

The restaurants get their CO2 at the welding supply store as well. It's a good pure source.

[@johnspencer8982]

They purge the food grade tanks

[@lennyshk]

Great video, thanks. One question: my carbonation cap does not have any gaket inside. When I screew it on a bottle it does not seem to make a good seal since its metal on plastic. I can't tell does your cap have a sealing gasket inside?

[@EmilyAndClark]

Yes it has a black rubber washer. You need that.

[@lennyshk]

@@EmilyAndClark Would they have those washers at the brewing shop where I got my co2, insidently?

[@EmilyAndClark]

I can't speak for the shop. They should give you one. But I bet you could find one at your local ace hardware.

[@jlperez1324]

Thanks for the video, how long does it keep the carbonation the bottle? Once you carbonated or it’s just to consuming in the moment when it’s has done?

[@EmilyAndClark]

Same as with a store bought beverage. Stays until you leave the cap off and it goes flat. Except now you can "recharge" flat soda.

[@africantwin173]

The salt to fresh watermaker kit looks interesting to see on a vid. Do you also use Pacor winlink, and HF on board.

[@EmilyAndClark]

Yes I still use pactor III. We will need it when we leave the Bahamas. I'm afraid I've not used the HAM gear in years. Hope the tuner is still OK We have talked about doing a watermaker video. We use a Spectra. Great device but I'm not sure if I would recommend one now, they cost too much. Still it's interesting kit. Are you a HAM?

[@africantwin173]

@@EmilyAndClark I got a ham general license here in the Netherlands. But i barely use it. I really enjoy your vids. I myself am not a sailor. Not wealthy enough. But i like your lifestyle. Meet many people's and other cultures. See something from the blue planet. No stressful life, like here in NLD. I will be following your channel more. Stay safe both. Cheers

[@nathanielmosco1665]

Do you turn off the tank and the shut off for the hose only? That would leave pressure in the regulator on both gauges. Is it okay to leave pressure in the regulator long term? Or should that be vented post every use? Assuming the tank and hose shut off are always off when done this shouldn’t be a problem right? I just don’t want to ruin my regulator. Thanks in advance.

[@EmilyAndClark]

I shut off the tank, just in case. But the line and regulator stay under pressure since there are no leaks in my system. Don't worry, they will be fine under pressure they are built for it.

[@EveryonesGrudge]

Does anyone know the downside of this? Why do people usually recommend the Mccans big mac and cold plates etc etc?

[@EmilyAndClark]

That approach can run continuously. Way better for a soda commercial fountain. This is essentially a manual, batch version of the same reaction.

[@spencermurray2680]

Hey, I'm just wondering, is it really 10 years that will last? At our restaurant we have a massive co2 tank and that has to be refilled often. I did the math for how much you guys make and that's a lot of soda to make out of a 10lbs tank. If this is right then awesome! I'm so making one.

[@EmilyAndClark]

We don't drink an awful lot of bubbly water.

[@bwj999]

Does it require shaking with sodastream as well?

[@briansb2455]

how long is a season? You cruise half the year?

[@EmilyAndClark]

We were last in the US for 6 months in the summer of 2019 for a refit. It will likely be many years before been sail back again. By season we mean a year but this is our life and we spend most of our time out cruising on the boat.

[@JCs-Music]

Interesting to see if you can make canned meat appealing

[@EmilyAndClark]

It might sound gross but it is actually one of our favorite things! We packed 50 jars last time we provisioned, and ate every single one. It's like the best pot roast you've ever had, plus once it's canned, it's ready in 5 minutes! You're gonna love it. -Emily

[@EmilyAndClark]

FYI The meat-canning video is now up! kzbin.info/www/bejne/jZ-vkGSwqtqSrrs -E

[@NelsonPou]

Thank you!!! I am going to trash my sodastream ASAP!!

[@bungabening3530]

I'm probably too late but it's possible to buy an adaptor that screws onto your Sodastream and allows you to attach your own CO2 tank to it

[@EmilyAndClark]

I think you have to look elsewhere for that.

[@demesrvl6761]

Genius!!! Have 2 Sodastreams but bubbles are weak. I want real woman bubbles! Going to have to get my inner McGyver activated!! Thank you SO much!!!

[@EmilyAndClark]

Lol. You are welcome. FYI, we just got a new pressure-relief valve delivered today. Clark made a batch at 55 psi (the video was 45 psi). Holy bubbles! I bet you'd be pumping that SodaStream all day to get that much fizz! Glad we could empower and inspire you. -E

[@michaeldemarillac9992]

​@@EmilyAndClark My Grandfather was a doctor and was not impressed with carbonated drinks. The reason is it may affect some people by weakening the sphincter musles closing off the top of the stomach by simulating overeating so that you experience gastroesophageal reflux Disorder (GERD). Once you have that you have to sleep sitting up, or on a 10- to 30 degree triangular pilow and even then you may not be able to stop stomach acid gurgling up from your stomach, causing acid burns and ulcers in the esophageal tube, possibly resulting in cancer over time, and forever changing the types of food you can eat as well and being on medicine for the remainder of you life. I would keep the bubbles down to a dull roar like sodastream 15psi just in case.

[@phonixsolomon6275]

is there any reason to close the bottle? may you do this with a glass bottle?

[@EmilyAndClark]

If the glass bottle uses a standard screw on bottle cap, sure. I don't know what you mean "close the bottle". Yes to keep the water carbonated you must keep it closed just like any soda.

[@phonixsolomon6275]

Okay, thank you. Then I guess that one the presure (psi) in the bottle is the same with the cylinder the stone stops fluxing the gas, right? Is that how it works? I would have tough that that would make it explode... Also, I also though that if you let the bottle open while receiving the gas and after a while you close it, more gas can get into the water as it is circulating trough it for longer instead of just stop the flux once gets the same presure but then I guess that for that precisely shaking is the thing. Or may be I am not getting how this works. Thank you.

[@EmilyAndClark]

@@phonixsolomon6275 You may want to watch the video again. I think you didn't notice that there is a pressure regulator in the system. I have mine set for 60psi so the bottle never sees any more pressure then that. If you put full CO2 evaporative pressure in a polyethylene bottle it will explode. And very violently! I once did this with dry ice and water in a field to see the effect. You wouldn't want to be anywhere near it. I was a 50 yards away with hearing protection and it was too loud.

[@dennisdmenace2416]

I got the stuff you have on your list but I don't have a shut-off valve. Do you have a video of putting this together? Also, where does the brass fitting go? Am I missing something?

[@EmilyAndClark]

You don't really need the ball valve, but it's nice. Just look at the video. I think it will only go together one way. The brass fitting goes from the regulator to the hose. If it doesn't fit it's because you didn't get the valve. Just go to your local Ace hardware store with the parts (not the tank) and they will be happy to get you squared away.

[@dennisdmenace2416]

​@@EmilyAndClark Thanks. I think I'm going to go low tech and go with a ball valve assembly kit.

[@alwayssummerrochambeau]

Thanks for creating this video! I bought the parts / set up that you covered in this video. However, I’m Not getting carbonated water. Some bubbles happen, but Not the way you show in the video. Are you willing to do a video call with me to help troubleshoot? 🙏🏼

[@EmilyAndClark]

We do have a Patreon tier that gets a call to solve problems but I assume that's not what you are looking for. If you are pressurizing co² on water it will carbonate. If the water is cold it works faster. Surface area is a big thing too, shake the bottle. Are you shaking the bottle? Do that. You will hear the gas flow. Keep shaking until the gas stops and you will have carbonation.

[@alwayssummerrochambeau]

@@EmilyAndClark Thanks! I am doing those things…

[@EmilyAndClark]

What pressure are you using?

[@alwayssummerrochambeau]

@@EmilyAndClark 45 psi. I shook it extra today and got some bubbles! Now I need to figure out how to make them bigger.

[@bellilly]

i'm going to do it! i'm going to do it like you outline and thank you for the amazon links. the tank and co2 i'll get locally. fyi: the carbonation cap link is "currently unavailable" (made a sub choice and hope it works). grins to you

[@EmilyAndClark]

Thanks for the heads up bellilly. We will update the link AGAIN. They are always available but always by different sellers. Just make sure you get the stainless one not the blue plastic one.

[@bellilly]

@@EmilyAndClark , i wonder if you can help. the regulator link ... i got the one it goes to but now i can't get the connector off to replace with the brass fitting. oy..

[@EmilyAndClark]

I'm so sorry that is causing trouble. Regulators keep becoming "no longer available" and I have to find a new one to recommend. And of course I can't buy one every time. I'll change the link. For you, you have two choices. 1. get bigger wrenches. Sounds crazy but levers make a difference. 2. If your hose is 1/4", you could cut off the end and just put it on the hose barb and clamp it. It it's a bit smaller then 1/4" it still works if you soak the rubber hose in boiling hot water first. With this approach you loose the manual valve but it's not vital.

[@bellilly]

no worries, it'll get returned. i'm not seeing options on amazon for one where i get to unscrew the valve that couples with the hose to attach the connector. although i like your yellow hose concept, i might have to abandon it.. will keep you posted.

[@EmilyAndClark]

Yeah. You got the idea what you need now. If you find a good choice please post it to me and I'll put the link to it up for others. I'm going to switch to this one tonight. www.amazon.com/dp/B07YV4TJMC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_i_9JjMFbH8HBCFK

[@laceysagitta6064]

What are your thoughts on using glass?

[@EmilyAndClark]

Make sure it can handle the pressure

[@laceysagitta6064]

And how do I do that?

[@EmilyAndClark]

Well did it have carbonated beverages in it before? If in doubt stay with plastic.

[@laceysagitta6064]

Yes it was a mineral water bottle… Calistoga. Thank you so much!

[@EmilyAndClark]

Stay safe

[@briansb2455]

If Walter White had a un-diabolical brother...

[@JCs-Music]

Talk to me about protecting your flour and rice

[@beejay7665]

I’ll second that, Jeff. I had an “aha” moment when Clark mentioned using the CO2 to protect/preserve dry goods. Can you guys touch on that again in your provisioning videos? Thanks and love you guys!

[@EmilyAndClark]

Yea that would make a good video. CO2 enhanced atmosphere displaces free oxygen which stops things going rancid and also prevents mold, bacteria and bugs. The mold/bug protection works with quite low concentrations like 10%. We will be using this for bread we bake. Bag all but one loaf in a CO2 atmosphere and expect them to keep longer.

[@JCs-Music]

Emily & Clark's Adventure what do you use to store the bread etc? How to get the co2 in? Etc

[@EmilyAndClark]

Well, the gas inside the bread is already CO2. From the yeast. Just need to squeeze the air out of a bag that's currently around the bread and inject a bit of CO2 outside the bread so regular atmosphere doesn't get sucked back in. It doesn't take a lot to get the concentration high enough to have an effect. -C

[@beejay7665]

Thanks Clark (and Jeff). Low concentration (~10%) would be easy to introduce into a ziploc or hard plastic container. Also, as CO2 is heavier than air it would displace air and settle in the bottom of a container. Leads me to another question; do you keep your CO2 cylinder in a propane locker? 10lbs of CO2 leaking into the main cabin could be potentially lethal, as it will displace air (ever stuck your head into a chest freezer after dry ice has melted/sublimed?) Hope to see you out on the water!

[@IcyMidnight]

Given that carbon dioxide is heavier than air, do you worry about leaks filling up your hull and any associated danger?

[@EmilyAndClark]

Not as much as we do for propane. If the co2 leaked we would know. Clouds of cold gas and we would feel bad and cough I expect. We would have time to get on deck. Turn on fans and just wait it out. Propane leak could end fire!

[@IcyMidnight]

@@EmilyAndClark What about while you're asleep? Do you keep the CO2 in a gas locker?

[@LongDistanceSailor]

It's in a very stout bottle, there is a positive hand valve before any fragile plumbing that is kept closed. No sane person would worry, and we regularly swim with sharks. You have to pick what you are going to be afraid of in life. Take a calculated risk. Or just sit on a couch eating soup with a very dull spoon! -C

[@MiQBohlin]

Excuse me m8's but here is something to get cleared: Do you really mean CH2O3 (as in the flask) is equivalent to CO2, as heard in the episode and seen in the comments? en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carbonic_acid en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carbon_dioxide If you'd blow exhale (CO2) via a straw into a glass of water (H2O) you theoretically make CH2O3 but in such a small amount that it's hard to measure. [Just had a conversation with a chemist about it] And I don't get why CO2 would stop fungi (mold) or rancid… and what bugs would be affected? I mean CO2 still contains oxygen, it's not nitrogen (which indeed IS used for food preservation) Please enlighten my scientific working brain 🙏

[@EmilyAndClark]

Too much for the comment section. But in short: co2 + h2o = h2co3. It tends to desolve best when cold and under pressure. Your exhaled breath is only 3% co2 and only at 1 bar. As for food preservative:. Co2 has no "free" oxygen. It's bound up tight to it's carbon. And is toxic at as low as 10% to bugs, bacteria and fungi. We are serious thinking of venting the 8 or so lbs still in the bottle into Temptress to kill bugs that might be on board. It would look so cool and not harm anything. We would vent it just before leaving and run fans when we return. I just bought a co2 detector. Would make an interesting video we think.

[@MiQBohlin]

Thnx! Great idea to make an episode about this. 👍🏽 (Maybe not a food related question above, but thnx for going into details.)

[@questionsforchristians]

The LorAnne's flavoring is awful. I did the 50 pack and it's the biggest waste of $80 I've ever spent. Thanks for all the other info it was helpful. And I built mine like like yours. The flavorings however are crap. A few drops In a soda you can hardly taste anything except chemicals. Since they didn't work for soda, I tried baking with them and i had to use 3/4 a bottle to flavor, say, ONE GERMAN PANCAKE. There has got to be a better way to flavor sodas

[@EmilyAndClark]

If you find a better product please comment here so others can benefit. I'm no expert as I don't drink flavored water, that was an Emily thing. Thanks

[@iska45]

Thank you

[@EmilyAndClark]

You're welcome