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  #1  
Old 04-10-2013, 10:57 PM
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Wheelman76 Wheelman76 is offline
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Ultreef types faster than me lol
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  #2  
Old 04-10-2013, 11:08 PM
HarleyC HarleyC is offline
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Thanks. I do have the premium version with optical sensor, so I guess I will keep.
Cheers
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  #3  
Old 04-10-2013, 11:14 PM
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I run the Tunze osmolator and an Apex and don't really have any plans to take the Tunze offline. It does its job fine. To me I think what I would consider is, how much do you like to tinker? If tinkering and DIY is your thing, go with the float switches and make your own breakout box for the Apex and have fun. If tinkering is not your thing then price out each option and go with whatever looks better to you.

One thought, the Tunze osmolator outputs 12vdc to run a 12vdc pump. These pumps aren't 100% bulletproof. But on the flipside, they're cheap ($25ish if I recall). So if the pump fails then you can replace it for cheap but you can only replace it with another 12vdc pump.

If you would prefer to use a powerhead then you need a relay. You can either buy the Tunze relay (they do sell a version, around $75ish I think) or DIY something (I went to an electrical/electronic supplier and bought some relays, you have to mount it yourself in some fashion but you'll probably be able to do something in the $10 ballpark). So again comes down to your love of tinkering (or not )

But if you want to go powerhead from the get-go then maybe float switches and the Apex from the start might be the way to go. So long as you're OK with playing around a bit to get it all done.

(For now I just stay with my DIY relay option and don't have to use up a controlled plug on my Apex powerbar. The Tunze is fine enough.)
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Old 04-10-2013, 11:18 PM
HarleyC HarleyC is offline
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Tks. I do like to tinker and have an electronics background. But, time is my issue. May look at the relay down the road. Will hook up the tunze for now though - when I get 5 minutes
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  #5  
Old 04-11-2013, 01:05 AM
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for tunze, make sure you don't let the pump run dry for couple days, this is not a problem with toms aqua lifter with apex. Sometimes, i just forgot to fill ATO reservoir for days :-)
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  #6  
Old 04-11-2013, 03:14 AM
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I would keep the osmolator...
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  #7  
Old 04-11-2013, 03:38 AM
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Quote:
Originally Posted by slakker View Post
I would keep the osmolator...
+1
I like my controller (not Apex) but trust my osmolator's optical sensor more than float switches. I've had to clean a float lately that luckily I tested and found it to be unresponsive

I hit my optical with a toothbrush when I remember, but it's never let me down yet - 11 months so far
A spare pump wouldn't hurt, just in case ...
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  #8  
Old 04-11-2013, 03:59 AM
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I have a bunch of float switches, If your interested. Hit me a PM!
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  #9  
Old 04-11-2013, 04:18 AM
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BTW just as more info, I'ver had the osmolator for about 4 years and when I got it, it had those gimpy stoopid mounting arms. I upgraded to the magnetic mounts (they should be stock now), and it's awesome. The most I've done for cleaning is rubbing my finger over the lens and a fresh water flush over it... it's pretty bullet proof, I was worried about algae or other build up screwing with the refractive sensor, but not even after so many years...
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Old 04-11-2013, 01:07 PM
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The only trouble I've had with my osmolator is the optical eye. We still don't know what caused it but I think it's something to do with the way my ATS lighting. Those sensor's don't like light shining into them
Anyway, the optical sensor stopped working but was replaced no questions asked
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