Osmolator backup float switch unreliable

[sjediets]

I have a 3 yr old osmolator that I've recently set up on a new tank (in sump) with newly purchased magnetic holder. The problem is that most of the time the backup float switch won't trigger the alarm even when completely underwater (cause by turning off the return pump). The float comes up, but it won't trigger the alarm until I apply some further upward pressure on the float. Same goes even when I manually test the float.

The rest of the unit is working fine. Any ideas what might be causing this?

 

[rvitko]

Double check that it is properly installed in the magnetic mount, The float switch is a magnetic switch and positioning of it is critical to avoid the effects of the magnetic field of the holder. It should be mounted in the 3150.310 with the shaft/ C clip end pointing upwards.

 

[sjediets]

I didn't get any docs with the magnet so below is the way it is oriented in the sump. Is that correct? I tested the switch out of the mount and it does trigger correctly without any additional pressure upwards. Seems to me the magnet is affecting it.

 

[rvitko]

Yes, that is correct, double check that the nano magnet on the outside is lined up with the lower portion of the larger internal holder. If it is high this may cause the problem. The shielding of the float is largely based on position, but it also is shielded by some metal plates inside the holder, bottom line is the way the magnets line up is very important, there is a built in offset between the magnets to account for trim on the outside top of the tank. Also, they now include a manual, I apologize for that but when they first came out, no manual or packaging of any kind was included. The 3155 manual is what is included and can be downloaded on Tunze.com.

 

[sjediets]

I didn't re-test it but it seemed to me that even when it was separated from outside magnet, the issue still existed. I just now turned the outside magnet a bit and lowered it...and the problem went away... so we'll call this fixed I guess.

Thanks for your help.

 

[rvitko]

The outside magnet is critical to neutralizing the field, when not present, it won't work.