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			 Recently took my cover off to compensate for the new skimmer and I have been losing quite a bit of water which is expected but man its getting up to almost a gallon a day.  So I was just trying to get opinions if others out there get a custom top made or tuff it out and get an auto top-off. (I do really like the look of the tank with open top) 
		
	
		
		
		
		
		
	
		
		
	
	
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			#2  
			
			
			
			
			
		 
		
		
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			 Now all my tanks have glass tops. They really aren't that expensive to get a good glass shop to cut some. My tanks with tops lose 1/3 or 1/4 of the water that my open topped one. 
		
	
		
		
		
		
			
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	If you see it, can take care of it, better get it or put it on hold. Otherwise, it'll be gone & you'll regret it!  | 
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			#3  
			
			
			
			
			
		 
		
		
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			 If you like the open top look run open top.  
		
	
		
		
		
		
			As for ATO though can be simple (container above the sump and a float valve) to contollers, optical sensors and solenoids, one of the best additions to a system. Get one if even have covers. 
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			my tank Last edited by mark; 10-31-2011 at 03:01 PM. Reason: spelling  | 
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			#4  
			
			
			
			
			
		 
		
		
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			 ATO in my opinion is absolutely mandatory.  Get one... you'll be so glad that you did.   
		
	
		
		
		
		
			On another note, I can't imagine having a top on my tank. Wouldn't that kill your PAR? 
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	-Murdoch 160 gallon Reef, almost all SPS, a few LPS, small handfull of Zoas, and 5 clams. LOVING the upgrade (now that most of the work is done!) My tank Journal: http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=75924  | 
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			#5  
			
			
			
			
			
		 
		
		
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			 Glass tops can keep heat in which may be an issue. They will also require regular cleaning. The best thing I ever did for my tank was install an ATO. I haven't had to top off the tank in a year. Mine is plumbed into my household water supply (with appropriate safety stages). Previously, I used 5g jugs attached to a float valve. 
		
	
		
		
		
		
			
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	Brad  | 
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			#6  
			
			
			
			
			
		 
		
		
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			 When I ran my tank open I lost way too much water throughout the day that the return pump would start sucking air. About a gallon a day. After putting glass tops on I lose about 2 litres tops. 
		
	
		
		
		
		
			
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	![]() 314 gallon Drop Off Reef tank. 150 gallon sump. Bean Animal Overflow. Various Tangs, Angels, Triggers, Inverts, Corals, etc. http://www.canreef.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=80379  |