Osmolator setup

[TCU Reefer]

I just set up my osmolator but it's not working properly.

I mounted the optical sensor lower than the float switch. The sensor is completely submerged in the sump and I plug in the unit and the pump starts pumping water. I thought that if the sensor is completely submerged, the water will not pump.

Did I do something wrong? How can I get this to function properly?

 

[Snausages01]

When you first plug it in water pumps for a few seconds, I guess to show the unit is working properly, and if the green light is on it will stop pumping shortly after you plug it in. If the green light is not on it will pump until the water level reaches the correct height and will turn off when the green light comes back on.

 

[TCU Reefer]

I plugged it in again and it's working properly.

 

[rvitko]

Also keep in mind new osmolators don't always work perfectly, the problem is new plastic is hydrophobic so the sensor tends to collect air bubbles and register air instead of water. The solution is either a couple days of dealing with it or rinsing the sensor in hot water.

 

[zoomin]

This is some timely info. I just picked up an Osmolator this morning and I had hoped to set it up and use it while I am away for a few days - leaving tomorrow night.

Would this be a bit rash given that the osmolator takes a few days to "break in"?


...sorry about hijacking this thread...

 

[rvitko]

Just rinse the sensor in hot soapy water to break the surface tension and make sure you install the safety sensor. It would be ideal to be around for a few days, the unit does not work well if you have a lot of bubbles in the sump and if that is the case you generally need to trouble shoot and stop the bubble problem somehow.

 

[zoomin]

Thanks Roger,

also, the manual mentions not to have the sensors under MH lighting...well my current tank has a sump integral to the display so I don't have much choice. Can I just shade it a bit with some tinted acrylic maybe?

My new tank is on the way so this would just be temporary.

I have a buddy coming over to look after the tank voer the weekend, but with this small tank, I find that I am manually topping up 3 or 4 times a day and I can't ask that of him.

 

[rvitko]

In general Metal Halides aren't a problem except for the heat if the sensors are to close and the other problem being algae growth causing faulty readings, up to 250w should not cause any other interference.