top off
 

I was just wondering how hard it is to make a top off for a sump? because i got through about 2 gallons a day in evaporation. so mainly i wanted to know how hard it is to make and how you make it?

I use a $20 float valve from J&L, connected to a bank of 5g containers. I fill them about once per week. If your setup allows, you can hook your RO directly to a sililar setup for not too much more money.
The float is easy to install if you have an acrylic sump, otherwise you will need to make some sort of bracket

http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b3...Underneath.jpg
http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b3...FloatValve.jpg
http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b3...pOffOutlet.jpg
Of course, a glass tank isn't required for the reservoir, but you get the idea.

I like my JBJ auto top off. It powers a pump when the float switch is on the low. It has a second float switch for the freshwater reservoir to make sure when the reservoir's low the pump isn't activated (run dry).

In the end the $100 was cheaper than the hours of time designing and putting one together and I've been satisfied.

i found this jbj auto top off deluxe kit set thingy. is that a good way to go for something liek this ????? i think all you need with it is a reservoir then i think you got it all. but is this a reliable solution?????

Could you guys with the JBJ,s tell me or a pic would be better, of the guards on the floats? I need something for a sumpless tank but any float system would need to be guarded.

:question:



:mrgreen:

If you go to www.autotopoff.com they have great products. I use the dual float valves on both my sump and mixing tank. They work awesome.

reason i like my jbj is it comes with the 2 float switches. one's to make sure your topoff pump doesn't run dry. if you need to guard it you could unscrew the float switch from it's included guard and DIY your own snailguard up.
http://www.kwirky88.com/images/aquarium/floatswitch.jpg