aqualifter

[spieszak]

I hooked my ATO up with an aqualifter, reservoir on the floor, pump at tank height, then down to the sump. (so, from the floor, UP to the pump, then down to the sump) The "out" is zip tied to my overflow plumbing so it will always stay above water. I'm seeing a slow steady drip into my sump when the pump is NOT running. Is it typical for the pump to create a vacuum or something? Do I have something setup wrong that could be causing siphon?

 

[psidriven]

is the water level in your reservoir higher than the end of your "out"? if so this will cause a siphon. otherwise, it's probably just the residual water in the tube leaking out, but not a siphon and should stop once the water clears out. if the dribble bothers you, lower the pump and shorten the tubes.

 

[spieszak]

the water level in the resovoir might be higher, but it has to run uphill.. i didn't really think ailine tubing could hold a siphon when running up 3 feet, but i guess the water pressure might be doing it. i'll take a look at that. thanks.

 

[hilgert]

The Aqualifter won't BACK siphon, but it can FORWARD siphon. Just make sure the pump is always below the end of the output hose.

Don't ask how I know this...

 

[psidriven]

mine will siphon both ways. does this mean its busted and needs a rebuild? if so, what is messed up?

 

[hilgert]

sounds like it. You can replace the unit (they are not that expensive) or just the diaphragm (same...not expensive).

New unit: http://www.bulkreefsupply.com/aqua-lifter-vacuum-pump.html

Replacement Diaphragm: http://www.bulkreefsupply.com/aqua-lifter-replacement-diaphragm.html

Also, to prevent back siphoning just make sure there is an air gap between the outlet line and the water (don't submerse the end of the output line).