Plan to Order iFloat Switches for Auto Top-off (GVRD)

[JPotter]

My daughter wants to make her own ATO switch for her tank.
Is this feasible? What compnents etc are required and where does one find out how to build them? I assume they would be cheaper than the tunze osmoliters and do the same thing.

Thanks.

[whatcaneyedo]

A simple ATO can be made with no electronic parts for about $20 using a float valve gravity fed from a container holding fresh water.

If she really wants an electronic system there doesnt seem to be much in this forum about DIYing one yourself. I suggest starting a new thread in the DIY section so that maybe someone else will chime in and point you in the right direction.

[robert]

Originally Posted by whatcaneyedo

If she really wants an electronic system there doesnt seem to be much in this forum about DIYing one yourself. I suggest starting a new thread in the DIY section so that maybe someone else will chime in and point you in the right direction.

Basic parts needed for simple electronic one would be
- float switch - I would use two, one as safety switch
- low voltage relay to switch on/off line voltage device - pump
- low voltage adapter to run the relay
- actual pump to pump the water

Float switch(es) would be then connected to low voltage side of the relay - think of them as on/off switch. Whole thing could be fit into outdoor pvc receptacle box, equipped with regular electrical plug - one for low voltage adapter and one for the pump. You could also use some LEDs to indicate an operation status.

[robert]

I bought 8 just recently, dirty chip, from this guy. He ships from Hong Kong for free. Delivery time wasn't bad at all

[Coleus]

Originally Posted by JPotter

My daughter wants to make her own ATO switch for her tank.
Is this feasible? What compnents etc are required and where does one find out how to build them? I assume they would be cheaper than the tunze osmoliters and do the same thing.

Thanks.

very simple and follow this instruction http://www.melevsreef.com/plumbing/auto_topoff.html

I may try to do it too

[robert]

Originally Posted by Coleus

very simple and follow this instruction http://www.melevsreef.com/plumbing/auto_topoff.html

I may try to do it too

It definitely will work. I just wouldn't feel comfortable to run 110 volts thru little float switch submersed under water. But then again, I'm more of pessimist if risks exist.