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-   -   ATO secondary shut-off (http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=96979)

Werbo 04-20-2013 05:14 PM

ATO secondary shut-off
 
I have this JBJ auto top off unit.
http://www.jlaquatics.com/phpstore/s...t_ID=JBJ-AUTOT

Seems every week there is a tank crash thread caused by a failed ATO sensor. I've decided that I want to incorporate a secondary shut off incase the sensor gets stuck in the open position.

Any suggestions?

Aquattro 04-20-2013 05:32 PM

Ya, float valve, like we discussed :)

Werbo 04-20-2013 06:11 PM

Kent float valve is the way i am leaning.

I was hoping there was someone smarter than us who's thought of something better

Reef Pilot 04-20-2013 06:39 PM

I use this for one of my sumps. But it would be overkill, if you already have an ATO. They also sell float valves for about $13, cheaper than the Kent valve.
http://www.autotopoff.com/products/DS1/

gregzz4 04-20-2013 06:52 PM

Cheapest way is a secondary float valve, as Brad suggests
Just test it every week

I've already had one float semi-fail since last May (not ATO related, but a float to a relay to shut off other stuff)
I took it out and cleaned it up. Now it's fine

Otherwise, buy a Tunze Osmolator and keep the sensor eye clean

Werbo 04-20-2013 07:05 PM

I already have a kent float valve that's in storage. So I am all good on that front. :)

ATO pump question. What would be a good pump? Reservoir and sump are inches apart?

strauss 04-20-2013 08:55 PM

ATO
 
Just my 2 cents. I only allow the ATO power for a few minutes a day via apex. So worse case and ATO fails in on position, minimal damage is done before I notice. Simply figure out your evaporation and how much your pump puts out and allow only enough time to complete the task.

Brandon

strauss 04-20-2013 08:56 PM

That's if you have a controller. If not forgot I said anything.

Werbo 04-20-2013 11:50 PM

Good suggestion. But I don't have a controller

Werbo 04-20-2013 11:56 PM

My ATO reservoir is quite large at approximately 25G.

Do I have to do anything to minimize slime, algae, ect in such a large reservoir.

Is airating the water necessary? Once heard this but his reasoning did not make sense to me.

I should also note that the majority of the time the reservoir will only have 10G. 10G is about 5 days water. I'll only be filling before vacations.


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