quick auto top off q

[fella1320]

i heard that the use of a relay was necessary is this true or just a myth? can you just slpice the float falve into the power line of the pump or should you use this relay thing?

[DiggerDave]

Im not sure, but this is what I have and it works great.
http://www.marinedepot.com/md_viewItem.asp?idproduct=JB5111

[Keiths_Reefs]

I guess it would depend on how much power your float switch can handle. I don't think they are typically rated to handle much.

the last thing you want is to be passing too much current through a component that's in salt water.

[DiggerDave]

Soory try this
http://www.marinedepot.com/aquarium_dosing_pumps_top_off_jbj_ATO_automatic_top_off_water_level_controller.asp?CartId=

[raskal311]

I think the switch that most people use is rated at 50watt so IMO if you use a pump rated half of that you should be ok.

[Nabber86]

It depends on how much potential voltage you want to run through your tank. Although there may be a way to do it properly, it probably isnt wise to splice the power cord to a 120 V AC pump an insert a float switch by yourself. Unless you like fried fish.

A relay allows you to use a much lower voltage for the switch circuit (like 12 V DC). That way if you screw it up (or salt water corrodes the circuit), you dont risk electrocuting yourself and your fish.

[fella1320]

great does anyone know of a site that shows you how to do this?

[fella1320]

im fairly handy but i have never delt with relays

[Wiskey]

Why don't you just use a float valve like the kent one, that turns the water off and on (not power). Then elevate a 10 gallon tank and run a line to your float valve. Simple easy gravity fed topoff, and it works great.

Whiskey

[fella1320]

thats a good idea that way i wouldnt have to even worry about electrocuting myself or worse my fish.lol well i wont be ready to do this for a couple of weeks but ill let eveyone know how it goes. Im jsut at work trying to pas the time and planning

[Stile2]

If you decide to go with a relay and power. We had an extensive discussion a little while ago.

Here is the thread. (http://archive.reefcentral.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=606215&highlight=DIY+auto+top+off)

Keith

[jeffbrig]

Originally posted by Wiskey
Simple easy gravity fed topoff, and it works great.


Gravity is your friend. And mechanical float switches are more reliable and safer than electrical contacts around saltwater.

[Shoestring Reefer]

I'm a gravity man myself. Second set-up like this, two years with no probs.

[fella1320]

where do you get the float valve?

[Wiskey]

I got mine at marine Depot, it is in the RO parts section, and is made by kent.

Whiskey

[Wiskey]

http://www.marinedepot.com/md_viewItem.asp?idproduct=KM1675

Link :)

[fella1320]

how does the water line hook up i noticed that it is required to drill a hole in the sump is that where the water line is hooked up to?? Also it says on the web site that it is not supposed to be used for level control in aquariums. did you do anything special or did you just install in as is?

[reefer2005]

I ordered one from Autotopoff.com (http://www.autotopoff.com./products.html) . I got the double switch sump mount. Seems well made and not too expensive.