DIY Auto Top Off

I cannot tell you how he wired that particular one, but I have done my own research on a DIY ATO, and on most of them, the float is spliced into the pump wires, and it acts like a light switch.
 
tallball158 said:
I cannot tell you how he wired that particular one, but I have done my own research on a DIY ATO, and on most of them, the float is spliced into the pump wires, and it acts like a light switch.
Click to expand...
That's it. But you can use a battery powered air pump instead of an AC pump to prolong the life of the float switch.
 
So I just splice the extension and insert the float switch between the live wire right? and thx for promt reply.
 
yes of course and so that is how it is done? in the future i may change the airpump to a powerhead that are used in filters to pump water in. so basically everything the same right?
thanks
 
I don't recommend this practice because the float switches commonly available for hobbyists aren't rated for 120V. With such high voltage, the contacts within the switch actually arc each time it opens and closes which will eventually lead to a failure. I used this method on my first tank and came home to find the switch had welded itself closed, causing the pump to stay on. Luckily no damage to the tank (FOWLR at that point) but it wasn't something you want happening. Instead, get a ATO like this one that uses a 12V relay to control the 120V line. It's also safer overall because you don't have 120V in the tank from a DIY project.

Good Luck.
 
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