ATO
 

I am looking for a ATO and I have only really heard of Tunze and JBJ. Any recommendations or advice :)

check out our systems.. there are many people out there using this system!
ATO LINK

Get a Profilux controller. The ATO works well, and you have all the other functions!

All of the all-in-one controllers (Neptune, Profilux, Digital Aquatics, etc) can do ATO as well with the additon of a float switch and pump. Or for about $20 you can buy a float valve and some 1/4" tube from Home Depot and rig up a gravit fed one. Seach on this site and you'll find some more ideas.

What kind of failures might occur with the contollers? Do they have backup safetys?

You can set the maximum time the pump will run to prevent an overflow in the case of a stuck switch. If you can set up a gravity feed it is the simplest system. I ran that for 4 years without any problems even though I had a controller. I've only just started using the ATO with the Profilux on my new cube because it is sump-less.

I have a profilux and the amount of safety you can add is endless. Max on time for one which is fairly full proof but you can also add additional float(s) for back up as well. Plus it was alarms which can be silent or audio and you can even add a module that will text your cell if a problem occurs.

Wayne,

If you're not looking to spend a lot, check out Autotopoff.com. I've heard good things about their products but no personal experience to attest to.

They can be as simple or as complicated as you want. I was able to pick up a Tunze ATO used for a steal a few years ago but I run it plugged into my Neptune controller for some extra protection. I also use a kalkwasser reactor and there is some risk of raising the pH too high so I came up with this:

Max Change 030 M Then ATO OFF
If pH > 08.60 Then ALM ON
If pH > 08.40 Then ATO OFF
If Switch1 OPEN Then ATO OFF
If Switch1 CLOSED Then ATO ON
If Timer KAL = ON Then ATO OFF

This is something that I am considering, but at this time I don't think its going to be possible. On my next tank I will invest in a system just so its less maintenance :lol:

Unfortunatly I have no room in my stand for a bottle. Especially if I every put a reactor in there :lol:. I do like the idea because even if it "fails" its only going to dump a certain amount of water in and no more.

I like the simplicity of the system... But on the other hand I do like dry floors, is one float switch enough of a safety?