DIY Top Off

kris_willard · #1 05-28-2004, 07:04 AM

I am looking for suggestions for an auto topoff for limited space as i have a 90gal with a 33gal sump and a Turbofloater skimmer with fuge and its all packed under the stand so spave is VERY limited. Any suggestions"?

Aquattro · #2 05-28-2004, 02:35 PM

Generally the easiest way is to use a float valve attached to a reservoir. A 5g jug works well. You can put it anywhere higher than your sump, maybe on the canopy or something. Other than that, direct plumbing from your RO unit with the required valves, etc. First method = easier and cheaper.

Skimmerking · #3 05-28-2004, 06:19 PM

like Brad has stated . if you can get a float switch in there some how and have it ran from your RO unit then go for it you will just haveto figure out how to place it in the sump ,due to you having it full of a refugium and the skimmer . If you can drill the sump then go for it its alot easy to have that going then replacing water every3-4 days depending on your evaporation.

mike

Skimmerking · #4 05-28-2004, 06:26 PM

2 posted deleted

kris_willard · #5 05-28-2004, 07:37 PM

I am replacing 2-3gallons every second day! I have sickening evap. I even made plexi top for the one half of the sump. Thanks for your help ill figure something out.

Jack · #6 05-28-2004, 08:06 PM

I definatly agree with what Brad reccomend. A float valve and a 5g Jug for your top-off water is cheap and easy to setup/maintain. I've been using the same setup for a long time now..

Aquattro · #7 05-28-2004, 11:40 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by kris_willard

I am replacing 2-3gallons every second day! .

hehe, I have 5g per day. Wanna trade?

Jack · #8 05-28-2004, 11:41 PM

5g per day? Is that what 400w do?

Aquattro · #9 05-28-2004, 11:50 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Jack

5g per day? Is that what 400w do?

3x400w plus a fan, yup. I also have more surface area than you, so evap will be greater.

trilinearmipmap · #10 05-29-2004, 12:49 AM

Can someone explain the float valve ie. I get the idea that when the water level drops below a certain level the valve opens allowing water to siphon in from the reservoir, but how is the float valve connected to the line from the reservoir. I am in a similar situation, limited space next to the sump for a reservoir, I thought I'd have to go with float switches and a powerhead/pump but if a float valve and siphon is easier then I'll go for it. Also anyone running kalk topoffs with a float valve?