ATO - Tunze vs DIY Breakout Box

[myst]

I have a full Apex controller. This is my first time setting up an ATO and I wanted some opinions from experienced reefers about the pros and cons of setting up my own ATO with a breakout box vs using a Tunze Osmolator. I know I'd save some money with the breakout box but my main concern is ease of use and reliability/failsafes.

Thanks!

 

[Spyderturbo007]

I've been using the BOB + 2 Float switches for about a year and a half without issues. It's very easy to setup and not hard to program. It will save you a bunch of money over the Tunze. I just check my float switches when I do my sump maintenance and clean them if they get crusty.

 

[McPuff]

If you can get the Tunze used then I'd say just do that. It's remarkably easy and the water fluctuates about 1/8" in my sump. I haven't cleaned the infra-red eye in over a year and I've never had any problems with it (mental note: clean the infra-red eye ASAP!).

 

[myst]

I've been using the BOB + 2 Float switches for about a year and a half without issues. It's very easy to setup and not hard to program. It will save you a bunch of money over the Tunze. I just check my float switches when I do my sump maintenance and clean them if they get crusty.

Thanks, what pump are you using for it?

If you can get the Tunze used then I'd say just do that. It's remarkably easy and the water fluctuates about 1/8" in my sump. I haven't cleaned the infra-red eye in over a year and I've never had any problems with it (mental note: clean the infra-red eye ASAP!).

I've been on the fence for a while now. I'm just trying to see if there is any advantage of having everything controlled by the Apex.

 

[Spyderturbo007]

I just use one of the $18 AquaLifter pumps.