Auto top off (water level sensor)

[SuperR*]

Hey guys, how does the water level sensor work for an auto top off? Is anyone using this and is it reliable? Or better off to go with something not related to the Aquatronica for the ATO.

Rob

[nemo's janitor]

Sorry for the delay in reply but i was looking for this for you. if you want something different post your request and you will see if we can help.

http://www.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?postid=13100449#post13100449

[NeveSSL]

Rob,

Aquatronicas do a GREAT job handling ATO duties IMO.

You can set a minimum time that the ATO stays on and have it automatically turn off if it exceeds a maximum time.

Very safe and effective IMO.

Brandon

[RobbyG]

I 3rd this :) the controller is very safe and suited for this.
As a backup after the solenoid just put on a Kent float valve. Reason is that while the controller is reliable, the possibility of the RO solenoid getting stuck "ON" is always there. Mines been running 3 years with no problems but I still feel better knowing the Kent Valve is there as a $14 mechanical backup to all the electronics.

[SuperR*]

Thanks for the reply. I just want to use it as a basic ATO from RODI reservoir to the sump to maintain a constant reliable water level in the system.

So can I mount the water level sensor in the sump and make it work that way? Or do I need a float valve?

What is the best way to do this?

Rob

[NeveSSL]

You can, and should mount the water level sensor in the sump and program your Aquatronica to take care of the ATO. :)

Brandon

[SuperR*]

Ok, So just mount the water level sensor in the sump at desired water level. Run a line to the water level sensor and program the AT? Is it easy to program the AT to do this?

Sorry for the basic questions. New at this AT.



Rob

[NeveSSL]

Its all good, man. Ask as many questions as you'd like. :)

The level controller for the Aquatronica will plug into your power bar. If you bought the kit, they come with nifty probe holders. You can use those to set the level switch where you want it.

Once you physically set it up and plug it in, all you have to do is program it on the head unit. Its fairly straight forward. To be honest, I think the manual does a better job explaining it than I do. :) So go have a look at the latest manual (download it from Aquatronica.com ) and let us know if you have any specific questions and we should be able to get you set.

Brandon

[catastrofe]

I've been using my AQT for ATO duties for about 2 1/2 years. Works great!! The level sensor controls a plug on the power unit with an Eheim 1250 connected to it. The Eheim pumps RO/DI TO water from a resevoir across the basement from my tank.

Make sure you take advantage of the timer function. When my level sensor hits "Low", the TO pump runs for a max of 5 minutes. If the level sensor hasn't registered "High" in that amount of time, the pump turns off and prevents an overflow. Level sensors can and do get stuck so the timer function is a great failsafe.

:D