ATO for BC14

[stiltman]

Does anyone have an ATO on their BC 14?

I bought one from autotopoff.com. Seems pretty good, but the pump I got with it says it's only good for 25" head space. Also, it uses 1/2" line for top off, I'd probably have to make one of the holes larger in the back of the lid.

I'd like to hear what other's have done.

[stiltman]

Anyone?

[Colin]

Which one did you get?

--C

[Colin]

OK, I see. I use a similar ATO with an Aqualifter and 2 liter soda bottle as a reservoir. Works great.

--Colin

[stiltman]

Nice. How far is the tube running your top off back to the tank or are u using a sump?

[Colin]

No, it's on a BC 14, although I use a similar setup on my reef to the sump. Both the tank and the bottle sit on my desk. Remember, head space only refers to distance up.

--C

[stiltman]

That's my problem. Right now it would be easiest/best looking to put the reservoir and pump at the bottom of my stand and run the tube to the top of the tank. Which is more than 25".

[cherubfish pair]

How does the hose keep from pulling out of the lid?

[Colin]

How does the hose keep from pulling out of the lid?

Which lid?

--C

[stiltman]

I haven't done it yet, but I'm planning on putting it in, what I believe is chamber 3, the one with the window.

If I use the 1/2" tube recommended with the pump that came with the autotop off it will probably fit snugly into the opening in the back of the lid. Possibly with the assistance of a dremmel.

[thewire]

are you using a 1/2" tubing...that one big ato tubing for the tank that size. I used those airline for ATO.

[stiltman]

are you using a 1/2" tubing...that one big ato tubing for the tank that size. I used those airline for ATO.

That's is what I want to do! But the pump I got with the unit only uses 5/16 or 1/2.

I may just buy a new pump.

[thewire]

That's is what I want to do! But the pump I got with the unit only uses 5/16 or 1/2.

I may just buy a new pump.

Maybe you can use Aqualifter?

[stiltman]

i'm def. thinking about it.

i'm going to give my 1/2" tube a go. if that doesn't work i'm going to get an aqualifter.

[stiltman]

Update:

Ok, the pump I bought with the ATO was a pain and like TheWire said, it is much larger than necessary for my application.

I ended up buying the aqualifter and am using airline tubing. I am using a 3 liter poland spring bottle. I drilled a hole in the cap the size of the airline tubing and it fits perfectly into it.

@cherubfish pair As far as the top of the tank I am able to tuck the tubing under a the wires for the switch. Which is really just a precaution because the water pressure is so low that it really is not moving the tube. it's not like a powerhead where you really need to clamp the tubing down.

The set up is working great and I don't know how I survived without it. But....

The tubing that is inside the water bottle is discolored and has a little slime on it. I am told this is harmless bacteria. So far so good. My inhabitants are all doing well.

I am hoping to get everything nice and stable then start loading this thing up with some nice corals. Right now all I have are a couple varieties of softies. You listening Santa?