powerhead for JBJ topoff suggestions

[Rayman380]

Looking for low gph powerhead for jbj topoff. Something that can easily connect to a small plastic tubeing. Just some ideas. Thx

 

[MurphysLaw]

I have been using a Tom's aqua lifer on my JBJ ATO for a year with no issues.

 

[Rayman380]

Mine seems to run for awhile then times out. I think jbj is timing out???

 

[Rippinfrags]

http://autotopoff.com/Pumps/ - I really like the fountain tech pumps for topping off.

 

[azjohnny]

I use an Eheim Compact 600 pump with 1/2" flexible tubing

 

[azjohnny]

Mine seems to run for awhile then times out. I think jbj is timing out???

You need to flow more water, either a bigger pump or larger diameter tubing

 

[MurphysLaw]

Mine seems to run for awhile then times out. I think jbj is timing out???

I read the JBJ have a built in failsafe where it times out @ 14 min and you have to cycle the power to reset it. I beleive if you search this issue there is a way to adjust the time it will run. I got lucky I guess and mine runs longer. I run Kalkwasser in my ATO so I like how low the flow is.

 

[rocsec1]

I am using a small eheim pump for my autotopoff ATo. I forget but is it only 1.5 by 1 inch. Does a great job.

 

[brian cummings]

I use a sicce micro with my jbj ato

 

[82ndengineer]

Sicce micro or just a micro jet(little maxi jets)

 

[tcamos]

The Maxi Jet 1200 has always worked for me.

 

[Tschupe]

I use the rio 600 for both of mine

 

[mbingha]

You can disassemble the jbj ato and turn a knob counterclockwise to adjust the failsafe timer from 3.5 minutes to 14 minutes. I have the same ato with an aqualifter and it works great. I'd be concerned with an mj-style pump pumping too much too quick.

 

[82ndengineer]

As long as your floats are set up correctly it shouldn't be a problem with flow being to much.

 

[Down]

I'm not sure about size restrictions as I don't have an auto topoff, but for my semi-manual, homebrewed top off system uses a Cobalt (basically a maxijet) and I've been very pleased with it.

 

[tcamos]

One main recommendation I have about what NOT to use is don't use a Tom's aqualifter or similar product. JBJ ATO's have an automatic shut of. The aqualifter (from my experience) doesn't fill fast enough. So if the shut of (a safety feature) kicks in then your ATO is off and you won't discover this until your pumps are sucking dry. That's one reason I recommend the MJ-1200 because it's fast enough to get the job done quickly. They can also be used in or out of the water so location is convenient. I have a PVC pipe hooked to a hose that I simply stick down into my jug. It has a float zip tied to it and the hose running up the middle. Quick and easy.

 

[Rayman380]

Thanks for all the information! New hose worked!

 

[brian cummings]

Sicce micro or just a micro jet(little maxi jets)

a sicce micra. not a micro or min jet.