reverse switch?

Live Rocker · 01/09/2010, 11:11 PM

I have a question : I am setting up a sump and want to know if there is such a thing as a switch that turns off a power cord when the water level gets too low. I would like a fail-safe in place so that the return (external) pump would turn off if the water gets too low

rbnice1 · 01/09/2010, 11:13 PM

Sure use a normal ATO float switch and put it in upside down, or use a controller that has inputs use a float switch input and set up that outlet to turn off if the switch makes.

Shane Hoffman · 01/09/2010, 11:30 PM

Yes. Google BLUE LINE PUMP SAVER, I was given one from a lfs going out of business. Works like a charm.

Sisterlimonpot · 01/09/2010, 11:32 PM

Are you worried about running your return pump dry? if that's the case I would suggest an Auto Top Off (ATO) it will prevent your water level get too low.

Chiefsurfer · 01/10/2010, 12:51 AM

check out float switches for boats. I am not sure if they have any rated for 115volts, but they work EXACTLY like that. It is actually meant to turn a pump on when the switch floats. Meaning the only time it would not keep the pump running is when it dropped below a specific level. I don't think they are as sensitive as the ATO floats, BUT, they are about $20, and I don't think you need the minimalist accuracy of an ATO float.

01/09/2010, 11:11 PM	#1
Live Rocker Registered Member Join Date: May 2001 Location: Katy TX Posts: 63	reverse switch? I have a question : I am setting up a sump and want to know if there is such a thing as a switch that turns off a power cord when the water level gets too low. I would like a fail-safe in place so that the return (external) pump would turn off if the water gets too low

01/09/2010, 11:30 PM	#3
Shane Hoffman Registered Member Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: 45 mins from Chicago Posts: 2,009	Yes. Google BLUE LINE PUMP SAVER, I was given one from a lfs going out of business. Works like a charm. __________________ A wise man once said "Never play leap frog with a unicorn" Current Tank Info: 150 gallon glass with 20 gallon sump, 175lbs of coraline covered live rock, EuroReef skimmer rated for 250gal, 25watt Aqua UV sterilizer, Fluval FX5, Hamilton 3x250watt MH, 160 watt Blue actinic....Mixed reef

01/09/2010, 11:32 PM	#4
Sisterlimonpot R.C. Fraternity President Join Date: Dec 2008 Location: Litchfeild Park AZ Posts: 11,490 Blog Entries: 2	Are you worried about running your return pump dry? if that's the case I would suggest an Auto Top Off (ATO) it will prevent your water level get too low. __________________ Jimmy MASVC President Dishes are done man! Current Tank Info: 300 in progress

01/09/2010, 11:13 PM	#2
rbnice1 Moved On Join Date: May 2008 Location: Cedar Hill Posts: 3,905	Sure use a normal ATO float switch and put it in upside down, or use a controller that has inputs use a float switch input and set up that outlet to turn off if the switch makes.

01/10/2010, 12:51 AM	#5
Chiefsurfer Registered Member Join Date: Apr 2009 Location: Seaside Park, NJ Posts: 2,138	check out float switches for boats. I am not sure if they have any rated for 115volts, but they work EXACTLY like that. It is actually meant to turn a pump on when the switch floats. Meaning the only time it would not keep the pump running is when it dropped below a specific level. I don't think they are as sensitive as the ATO floats, BUT, they are about $20, and I don't think you need the minimalist accuracy of an ATO float.