WTB: Auto Top-Off

[tangale]

Does anyone have a full working version for sale? I don't need the pump, but just the float switch with all the wiring. Thanks!

 

[gforce6]

Hey, Alex.

You can make your own, if you do little bit of reading.
float switch $6
relay at Radio Shack around $10-15
9V battery or power supply around $5-10 at 99 cents store
some wire and connector $5

instruction
http://www.floatswitches.net/autotopoff.html

 

[inline6]

Float switches can be brought on ebay real cheap.
FYI

 

[tangale]

Anyone want to make me a full working float-switch (can be plugged to powerhead)? I'm willing to pay a fee for it. I'm just terrible w/anything electrical.

 

[Dmitry]

Do they have to be powered by anything? Could they work on gravity if the supply tank (or bucket or jar) is above the sump (assuming that's where the fresh water is being poured.)

 

[tangale]

I'm not too sure about the gravity ones. I've heard that they aren't the best, but what do I know.

On a seperate note, instead of a float switch...do you think setting a timer on the powerhead for a minute a day would suffice? The powerhead would pump freshwater into my sump to replenish the evaporated sw. I would prob split the hose of the output from powerhead, just so that not too much water goes into the sump. Decent idea???? Thanks!

 

[inline6]

I'm not too sure about the gravity ones. I've heard that they aren't the best, but what do I know.

On a seperate note, instead of a float switch...do you think setting a timer on the powerhead for a minute a day would suffice? The powerhead would pump freshwater into my sump to replenish the evaporated sw. I would prob split the hose of the output from powerhead, just so that not too much water goes into the sump. Decent idea???? Thanks!

Bad bad bad idea, don't do it unless you like mopping up water everyday.
I have a home made ATO system that works great, but it took alot of effort to get it just the way I want it.
Probably cost me $15, but 2 weeks of finessing.

 

[inline6]

If you want to see part of my setup
http://www.manhattanreefs.com/forum/showthread.php?t=5707&page=12&pp=10&highlight=disaster

 

[Dmitry]

Yeah, I think putting the power-head on a timer could cause floods and flunctuating SG levels. You never know how much water needs to be replaced at any given time. Room temperature, humidity - all influence how much water is evaporated. It won't be the same all the time.

 

[inline6]

Hey Alex,

Why don't come come over some day and I'll show you the ATO system I made.
You're like a few blocks away from me.

Sharn

 

[tangale]

Sharn, I will take u up on the offer! Prob sometime next week. I'll give you a ring! Thanks!