Float Sitch and Solenoid Recommendations

AKMike · 01/29/2008, 12:46 PM

I am building a sump and want to implement a float swith for auto top off and a solenoid to turn off my return pump in the event that my overflow loses suction. I am looking for tried and true models of each. Any help is appreciated.

Thanks,

AKMike

Chopstix · 01/29/2008, 04:09 PM

I use the dual switch in sump model from autotopoff.com ... Pretty low priced compared to some out there, had a second switch to shut it all down if the first switch sticks. My water level doesn't vary a full 1/8 if an inch. I use it with an aqua-lifter pump frmo a resevoir then a float swich in the resevoir actuates auto shut-off on my ro/di. My resevoir is a 10g kitchen trash can with flip up lid that sits next to the stand and looks good sitting there. It's one of the rectangular jobbies about so high. Then I have a Quiet One 2200 pump in the resevoir to keep things circulating and a heater as well. This way I just draw out water, add salt and I am good to go instantly for a water change. Whole system came in around 100 bucks I would say (not counting the circ pump which was a spare), with ATO switch, pump, float switch and auto-shutoff valve for ro/di unit.

kgross · 01/29/2008, 05:41 PM

Sounds like you will need 2 float switches 1 seloniod and 1 extra relay. Lower switch will turn on autotop of via the seloniod, second float switch will turn off main pump via a relay. You will have 2 seperate systems, unless you use the second float switch as a fail safe for both the ATO and the main pump.

Kim

01/29/2008, 12:46 PM	#1
AKMike Registered Member Join Date: Jan 2008 Posts: 6	Float Sitch and Solenoid Recommendations I am building a sump and want to implement a float swith for auto top off and a solenoid to turn off my return pump in the event that my overflow loses suction. I am looking for tried and true models of each. Any help is appreciated. Thanks, AKMike

01/29/2008, 04:09 PM	#2
Chopstix Registered Member Join Date: Sep 2004 Location: Monroe, MI Posts: 58	I use the dual switch in sump model from autotopoff.com ... Pretty low priced compared to some out there, had a second switch to shut it all down if the first switch sticks. My water level doesn't vary a full 1/8 if an inch. I use it with an aqua-lifter pump frmo a resevoir then a float swich in the resevoir actuates auto shut-off on my ro/di. My resevoir is a 10g kitchen trash can with flip up lid that sits next to the stand and looks good sitting there. It's one of the rectangular jobbies about so high. Then I have a Quiet One 2200 pump in the resevoir to keep things circulating and a heater as well. This way I just draw out water, add salt and I am good to go instantly for a water change. Whole system came in around 100 bucks I would say (not counting the circ pump which was a spare), with ATO switch, pump, float switch and auto-shutoff valve for ro/di unit. __________________ I have gone off in search of myself. If I should return before I get back, keep me here ... Current Tank Info: 70g, 20g sump/fuge, Aqua C EV-120 skimmer, 48" Nova Extreme Pro T5HO

01/29/2008, 05:41 PM	#3
kgross Premium Member Join Date: Nov 1999 Location: Nampa, ID Posts: 5,870	Sounds like you will need 2 float switches 1 seloniod and 1 extra relay. Lower switch will turn on autotop of via the seloniod, second float switch will turn off main pump via a relay. You will have 2 seperate systems, unless you use the second float switch as a fail safe for both the ATO and the main pump. Kim __________________ Proud Member of the Idaho Marine Aquarium Society America will only be the Land of the Free as long as it is the Home of the Brave. Current Tank Info: AGA 180gallon tank, VHO/MH lighting, DSB, calcium reactor, Also a 7 Gallon Nano softy tank, and a 32 gallon cube