Auto top-off systems question

vessxpress1 · 03/17/2006, 09:03 PM

I know this has been asked many times but what does everyone use for their auto top off unit? I've read some before but didn't pay much attention. My tank is back up against a wall, actually has a window behind it, with very limited space on either side. I don't have a sump unfortunately. So I guess I'd need something that can hang on the wall or something, by the tank. Any ideas? I've heard so many people say they're so easy and cheap. I'd love to set one up. thanks

wetWolger · 03/17/2006, 09:12 PM

I use an aqua lifter and a 10gal resivor. The switch is from www.autotopoff.com (i got the dual switch unit and am quite happy)....the aqualifter can not handle much head though, so if you have to pump a ways you may need a dosing pump

sknoch78 · 03/17/2006, 11:45 PM

LMIII. One of the best investments I have made.

melev · 03/18/2006, 12:51 AM

I used to have a tall wrapping paper container by my 29g, and it topped off the tank for about 5 days (.5 to 1g per day).

All you need is that $10 container, a float switch, an extension cord and an aqua lifter or powerhead to get the water into the tank.

OnTheReef · 03/19/2006, 12:07 AM

Quote:

LMIII. One of the best investments I have made.

A link, please?

todd2000 · 03/19/2006, 01:22 AM

Here's a link to the LMIII, if your interested http://www.marinedepot.com/md_viewIt...product=SP1071 too rich for my blood

. Im gonna just do what Marc suggested with a float switch and powerhead. Im probably gonna just go with this http://www.autotopoff.com/products/DT1/index.htm it has 2 switches so if one fails you don't overflow your tank, all you need is that, a powerhead, and a bucket total mabye $80, and your good to go.

Clayman · 03/19/2006, 02:07 AM

I use a passive system. I have a float valve fitted with 1/4 platstic line in the sump and a 5gallon pail that is rasied connected to that, I started a syphon and connect the line. As long as I keep the pail full the level stays fine. And no need for pumps and if the valve stuck open only 5 gallons could get into the sump.

03/17/2006, 09:03 PM	#1
vessxpress1 Premium Member Join Date: Aug 2005 Location: NW IL Posts: 1,603	Auto top-off systems question I know this has been asked many times but what does everyone use for their auto top off unit? I've read some before but didn't pay much attention. My tank is back up against a wall, actually has a window behind it, with very limited space on either side. I don't have a sump unfortunately. So I guess I'd need something that can hang on the wall or something, by the tank. Any ideas? I've heard so many people say they're so easy and cheap. I'd love to set one up. thanks

03/17/2006, 09:12 PM	#2
wetWolger Registered Member Join Date: Oct 2005 Location: Colorado Posts: 1,955	I use an aqua lifter and a 10gal resivor. The switch is from www.autotopoff.com (i got the dual switch unit and am quite happy)....the aqualifter can not handle much head though, so if you have to pump a ways you may need a dosing pump __________________ cheers, jent d-_-b Current Tank Info: 66gal = 32x24x20

03/17/2006, 11:45 PM	#3
sknoch78 Premium Member Join Date: Nov 2004 Location: Oregon Posts: 211	LMIII. One of the best investments I have made.

03/18/2006, 12:51 AM	#4
melev Moved On Join Date: Sep 2002 Location: Ft Worth, Tx Posts: 43,217	I used to have a tall wrapping paper container by my 29g, and it topped off the tank for about 5 days (.5 to 1g per day). All you need is that $10 container, a float switch, an extension cord and an aqua lifter or powerhead to get the water into the tank.

03/19/2006, 01:22 AM	#6
todd2000 Registered Member Join Date: Dec 2005 Location: VA Posts: 706	Here's a link to the LMIII, if your interested http://www.marinedepot.com/md_viewIt...product=SP1071 too rich for my blood . Im gonna just do what Marc suggested with a float switch and powerhead. Im probably gonna just go with this http://www.autotopoff.com/products/DT1/index.htm it has 2 switches so if one fails you don't overflow your tank, all you need is that, a powerhead, and a bucket total mabye $80, and your good to go.

03/19/2006, 02:07 AM	#7
Clayman Premium Member Join Date: Jul 2005 Location: Richer, Manitoba Posts: 234	I use a passive system. I have a float valve fitted with 1/4 platstic line in the sump and a 5gallon pail that is rasied connected to that, I started a syphon and connect the line. As long as I keep the pail full the level stays fine. And no need for pumps and if the valve stuck open only 5 gallons could get into the sump.