ATO flow rate

[Ed Kazz]

Should I add water to my sump at a low flow rate?

What I have is a ATO w/a 3/4" solenoid valve that just opens and lets gravity fed water thru. Should I install a valve and cut back the amount that is allowed into the sump?

Also any good plans to hook up the ATO to a Kalk diy reactor.
I have a calcium reactor is a kalk reactor the same and do I need one???

Thanks for any help
Ed

 

[padi200]

water should go in at the same rate it evaporates to ensure that the salinity stays constant. That is why most ATO use a sensor and turn on a pump when the water level decreases? Not sure if that is what you are asking?

Chuck

 

[Stuart60611]

If you are using float sensors, I do not think it matters that much because the float valve will turn off the pump when filled to desired level. You just need enough flow so that you can pump from your top off container to your sump.

 

[IslandCrow]

I prefer a slower rate simply because it will take longer to overflow the sump if you have a float valve (or whatever you use) get stuck, malfunction, etc. I think Aqualifter pumps are just about perfect. Otherwise, it really doesn't matter.

 

[Ed Kazz]

Thanks for the help.
The make-up water will be gravity fed thru this valve...
http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&ssPageName=ADME:B:EOIBSAA:US:11&Item=260267321033

Ed

 

[rkelman]

If that valve sticks open your going to have a flood.. The same goes for the float switch. I would eliminate one of the problems and use a Aqualifter pump. FWIW