help with osmolator

[macreefster]

i've been using the tunze osmolator for a year now and while i love it i have one re-occuring problem i need help with. for some reason (about once or twice a month) my water level sensor doesnt work. the water level will be well below the tip of the sensor and until i run my finger or a toothbrush over it and it will immediately start working until the next incident. the sensor is placed in my sump with hardly any surface agitation. it is about six inches from my skimmer return and might bubbles be forming on the sensor and causing it to not work? i don't think thats the problem as it did the same thing when i was using in on my nanocube and there wasnt any skimmer or bubbles on that tank at the time. any help would be appreciated as i would like to reduce the salinity and pH swings this causes. thanks.

 

[rvitko]

Try soaking the optic sensor in vinegar for a few hours and then wipe it off with a soft towel. Especially if you run kalk or a calcium reactor near the sensor, they get a mineral film and this has to be removed without harsh scrubbing or you will scratch and ruin the sensor.

 

[macreefster]

thanks roger....might i already have ruined the sensor by gently rubbing with a toothbrush? if so, can the sensor be replaced? thanks

 

[rvitko]

Yes, but I don't think a toothbrush would cause any harm. They get damaged by scraping with a knife or sharp tool or using a scotchbrite pad more than anything else.