ATO shutting off

[thecichlidpleco]

Needed to get another ATO after battling some salinity issues after not having any for the summer and fall, for some reason. Anyways I am having the same problem with this ATO as my last one, it shuts off before it even refills the sump. Is there a time limit or something with how long the ATO will run?

 

[FloatingFish]

What brand ATO are you using?

 

[reefgeezer]

You can build your own with a plastic liquid level switch and a solenoid from McMasterCarr.com, and a lamp cord. Its gravity fed, holds the sump within an 1/8 inch, and mine has been in operation for about two years with no issues. I think the whole thing cost me $50. If you can't elevate the fresh water container a little, a small pump would work instead of the solenoid and gravity.

PM me and I'll email the instructions if you interested.

 

[thecichlidpleco]

It is the JBJ brand ATO

 

[FloatingFish]

Maybe you need a bigger pump. I use a aqua lifter pump and it doesnt time out but there is a way to fix it.

http://www.jbjlighting.com/prod-ato-faqs.html


Q: How large of a pump can I plug into the A.T.O.?
A: The A.T.O. receptacle will handle pumps up to 2amp capacity.
Q: Can the Audible Alert be turned off?
A: Yes, it can be turned off if the "Speaker Buzzer" is removed from the circuit board.
Q: Why does my A.T.O. automatically shut off after a few minutes of operation even though the water level has not reached the float sensor?
A: All A.T.O. Controllers have a factory "Float Fail-Safe" duration time period of 3 minutes and 45 seconds of operation before power to the pump is turned off. The Pump LED will glow but power to the pump will not be turned on. This feature was designed to act as a safety mechanism in the unlikely event the float sensor(s) failed or if something was to get stuck in between the sensor(s). You will have to reset the float sensor(s) to restart the controller.
Q: Can I adjust the "Float Fail-Safe" duration time period?
A: Yes, the duration time can be extended to 14 minutes of operation. (Please see instructions below on adjustment.)

 

[JasonBJones]

Have you extended the time it will run from 2 minutes to 14?

If not, here are the instructions:
How to Adjust the "Float Fail-Safe" Time Duration

Step1:
Unscrew back panel off of controller (4) total screws Adjusting Dial is located towards the top in "Blue Color"


Step2:
Use a Phillips screwdriver and turn the dial COUNTER CLOCKWISE until it locks. This setting will give a operation mode time of approximately 14 minutes or until correct water level is reached.

 

[reefermad619]

Thanks for this! My JBJ was shutting of too. It's good to know it's not broken.

 

[thecichlidpleco]

Double thanks, very good to know.